Gráinne Walsh the latest Irish fighter to suffer controversial defeat in Serbia

In a desperately disappointing start to the World Boxing Championships, five Irish women have exited in 48 hours with some questionable judging and refereeing playing a part

DEJECTED: Grainne Walsh. File Pic: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Gráinne Walsh's World Championship debut ended in disappointment after she became the latest Irish fighter to endure a painful opening bout in Serbia.

Offaly native Walsh lost to Navbakhor Khamidova of Uzbekistan in controversial circumstances when she was given a standing eight count in the second round by the referee, who late deducted another point for holding. The situation was all too similar to compatriot Michaela Walsh who came out the wrong side of some questionable judging on Monday.