Boxing: Joe Ward gets back to winning ways claiming first Irish title since 2014

Joe Ward last night hailed his first Irish title win since 2014 as the start of his journey back to international success.

Ward, the reigning European champion and a World Championship silver medallist, claimed a 4-1 split decision win over Dubliner Anthony Browne in the 81kg decider at the National Elite Championship finals last night.

Seeking to rebuild from the disappointment of the Rio Olympics, victory at Dublin’s National Stadium marked Ward’s first Irish title in three years as he had not competed in the domestic tournament since his 2014 win.