Irish Examiner view: A stark reminder of the dangers of sport

Evidence is mounting that sports including boxing, rugby, and soccer can produce the same results as acts of violence unless further forms of protection are put in place

Galway boxer John Cooney died after receiving treatment at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital after his defeat by Nathan Howells at the Ulster Hall on February 1. File picture: Niall Carson/PA

The sad news of the death of 28-year-old Irish boxer John “Kid” Cooney is a bleak reminder that for many sports people head injuries fall into the definition of “industrial accident” — a high risk associated with their profession or pastime.

Cooney was taken to intensive care after his first defence of his Celtic super-featherweight crown was stopped in the ninth round in Belfast on Saturday, February 1.