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. 

Michaela Walsh took to social media on Tuesday to voice her dismay over the decision which went in favour of home favourite Andjela Brankovic.

“Yesterday, my dream was stolen,” she posted on Instagram. “I stepped into the ring at the World Championships against (a) hometown boxer and dominated the fight. It was clear as day. Yet somehow, the decision went against me. I have always been humble in both victory and defeat, but this is something I cannot accept.”

All three of Walsh, Carleigh Irving and Jenny Lehane lost on Monday. That run continued with Walsh and there was more of the same for Team Ireland when Daina Moorehouse saw China’s Hu Meiyi have her arm raised after their 50kg battle.