Belfast-based 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.

In a statement, Cooney’s promoter Mark Dunlop said: “Following John Cooney’s epic title fight at the Ulster Hall on Saturday evening, John was assessed by the onsite medical team of the British Boxing Board of Control and swiftly taken to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital for further treatment.

“On arrival at the RVH it was discovered that John had an intercranial haemorrhage and underwent immediate surgery to relieve the pressure on his brain.

“John is currently in the intensive care unit and in the capable hands of the hospital 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.”

Howells released a statement on social media on Monday to wish his opponent a speedy recovery, posting on Instagram: “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 an 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.”

Cooney won the Celtic super-featherweight title with a first-round victory over Liam Gaynor in Dublin in November 2023, part of the same sell-out show that saw Katie Taylor defeat Chantelle Cameron by majority decision.

He spent a year out of the ring with a hand injury but returned to defeat Tampela Maharusi at York Hall in October, while his loss on Saturday was his first as a professional.