The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) has announced that Belfast will play host to an international U23 round robin tournament next month, forming a central part of preparations for the inaugural World Boxing European U23 Championships in Hungary this November.
A 16-strong Team Ireland has been selected, drawn largely from the 2025 National U23 champions, and featuring some of the brightest emerging names in Irish boxing. The line-up includes World bronze medallist Patsy Joyce, 2024 European U23 champion Louis Rooney, European U23 bronze medallist Robyn Kelly, and former World and European youth champions Cliona Darcy, Adam Olaniyan, Ava Henry, and Tadgh O’Donnell.
The squad represents nine counties across Ireland, from Antrim to Wicklow, reflecting the depth of strength that has been built at the underage level.
They will face stiff competition from national U23 teams representing Hungary and England, as well as an Ulster Select side, over five sessions of boxing between October 9th and 11th at the Girdwood Community Hub in Belfast.
This will be the first international round robin staged in Ireland since 2017, providing each team with the opportunity to face every other opponent — a format designed to deliver maximum competitive exposure.
High Performance Director Jon Mackey described the tournament as “a vital development opportunity” for Ireland’s next generation.
“We have a strong team, and pre-championship competition against Hungary, England and an Ulster Select will only serve to further enhance preparations,” he said, while also paying tribute to the role of Belfast City Council, the Ulster Boxing Council, and Antrim Boxing in supporting the event.
IABA President Anto Donnelly emphasised the broader strategy of creating more international opportunities for young Irish boxers.
“Hosting seven internationals in six months across youth and elite levels speaks to how committed we are to getting Irish boxing back to the top of international podiums. These events are also impossible without the contribution of volunteers, referees, judges and officials.”
Ulster President Kevin Duffy and Antrim President Paddy Barnes Snr. both hailed Belfast’s rich boxing heritage and its ongoing role in producing champions. With nine of Ireland’s Olympic boxing medals having come from the city, the Girdwood event is being seen as another step in cultivating the next generation of medal contenders from what has always been a rich source.
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Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
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