Junior Lightweight contender John Cooney is in intensive care following his defeat to Nathan Howells in Belfast last Saturday.

Cooney (11-1, 3 KOs) and Howells (11-1-1, 2 KOs) were competing at the Ulster Hall, with the former defending his Celtic 130-Pound title for the first time.

The 28-year-old was stopped in the ninth round of their contest and was taken out of the ring on a stretcher after being treated by ringside medical personnel.

Cooney was moved to Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast where his promoter Mark Dunlop confirmed the boxer underwent 'immediate surgery to relieve pressure on his brain'.

"On arrival at the RVH it was discovered that John had an intracranial haemorrhage," Dunlop added

"John is currently in the intensive care unit and in the hospital's capable hands of the ICU team.

"John's fiancée Emmaleen and his parents Hughie and Tina would like to thank everyone for their private messages of support and would ask they keep John in their thoughts and prayers at this time as he faces his toughest battle."

Cooney previously competed on the undercard of Katie Taylor's rematch with Chantelle Cameron in November 2023, winning in the first round against Liam Gaynor to pick up his Celtic title.

But the following year was plagued by a hand injury which kept him out of action until a return victory over Tampela Maharusi last October in London.

Just prior to his bout with Howells, Cooney had been sparring with ex-world title challenger Zelfa Barrett in Manchester.

His opponent Howells has since released a statement, which reads: "I know a few of my lot have been asking about John and I've been waiting to hear myself. I haven't heard anything yet but here's the latest update from the promoter.

"Genuinely never wanted for any of this to happen, I just went out there to box. I wish nothing but the very best for John and his family and hope he comes home safe and sound. I don't actually know him myself, but he seems like a really respectful and nice man.

"What I do know is he's a fit and strong young man and he can beat this and come out the other side. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends and he will forever have my respect.

"We shared a ring together and the boy never once quit or looked for a way out. Get well soon mate - all the best."