President leads tributes to Dunne

President Mary McAleese today led the tributes to boxer Bernard Dunne after he was crowned the new WBA Super-Bantamweight World Champion.

The win for the Dublin fighter topped an historic day for Irish sport, coming just hours after the rugby squad clinched its first Grand Slam victory in 61 years.

Dunne defeated Ricardo Cordoba with an eleventh round knock-out at the 02 arena in central Dublin in the early hours of this morning.

President McAleese said: “Bernard Dunne showed courage, skill and determination in winning like a true champion.

“This is a wonderful night for him and his family – one in which all of us can share.”

Sports Minister Martin Cullen said the victory was the culmination of a wonderful day in Irish sport.

“I would like to congratulate Bernard Dunne who, after a remarkable challenge successfully captured the WBA World Super Bantamweight title,” Mr Cullen said.

“It was a sensational performance by the young Dubliner. With determination, power and stamina he boxed his way to a memorable victory.

“Bernard Dunne’s personal success in Dublin in front of thousands of supporters was the culmination of a wonderful day in Irish sport.”