Belfast boxer John Cooney in intensive care following title fight

The fighter was taken to hospital where it was discovered he had an intercranial haemorrhage. He underwent immediate surgery. 

John Cooney's opponent Nathan Howells said he hopes the Belfast fighter "comes home safe and sound". Pic: Stephen McCarthy, Sportsfile

Belfast boxer John Cooney is in intensive care after his defeat to Welshman Nathan Howells at the Ulster Hall on Saturday.

Cooney was stopped in the ninth round of the fight, which was the first defence of his Celtic super-featherweight title, and subsequently underwent surgery.