World title defence in Thomond would be ‘dream come true’ for Lee

It is said the mark of a true champion is an amalgam of excellence, respect, and humility.

Andy Lee demonstrated the first in Las Vegas with devastating effect in the early hours of Sunday, when he was crowned middleweight boxing champion of the world.

And he ticked the other two boxes with gracious aplomb during a rapturous homecoming to Limerick yesterday where he was greeted by hundreds of people in driving rain and accorded a civic reception by Limerick City and County Council.