Ireland's Bernard Dunne claimed the WBA super-bantamweight title with an 11th-round knockout of Ricardo Cordoba.
Irish super-bantamweight seizes WBA belt with KO victory
Ireland's Bernard Dunne claimed the WBA super-bantamweight title with an 11th-round knockout of Ricardo Cordoba at Dublin's O2 Arena.
In the first world title fight to held in the country for 13 years, Dunne thrilled the home fans by dominating the early exchanges.
The 29-year-old sent Cordoba to the canvas for the first time in the third round with a left hook but the Panamanian beat the count and then fought back well, dropping Dunne twice in the fifth round.
But Dunne found his second wind and regained the upper hand as the contest wore on.
The 11th round proved decisive as Dunne floored Cordoba three times to claim the belt and leave the dethroned champion to depart the ring on a stretcher.
Dunne's victory improved his career record to 28-1 and completed a wonderful day for Irish sport after the rugby union team had completed their first Grand Slam in 61 years earlier on Saturday.
True champion
President of Ireland Mary McAleese led the tributes to the new champion, saying: "Bernard Dunne showed courage, skill and determination in winning like a true champion.
"This is a wonderful night for him and his family - one in which all of us can share."
Sports Minister Martin Cullen added: "I would like to congratulate Bernard Dunne who, after a remarkable challenge successfully captured the WBA world super-bantamweight title.
"It was a sensational performance by the young Dubliner. With determination, power and stamina he boxed his way to a memorable victory.
"Bernard Dunne's personal success in Dublin in front of thousands of supporters was the culmination of a wonderful day in Irish sport."
