Eleven of Ireland’s finest boxers are poised to make their mark at the inaugural World Boxing Cup: Brazil, scheduled from April 20th to 27th. This prestigious tournament marks the first of three in the 2026 World Boxing Cup series, offering elite male and female boxers a platform to accumulate crucial ranking points.
The Irish team boasts an impressive lineup, featuring six Olympians: Daina Moorehouse, Jenny Lehane, Michaela Walsh, Jude Gallagher, Dean Clancy, and Jack Marley. They are joined by 2025 World bronze medalist Patsy Joyce and multiple European U23 medalist Louis Rooney. The team represents a diverse range of clubs from across Ireland, including Belfast, Dublin, Leitrim, Louth, Tyrone, Westmeath, and Wicklow.
In preparation for the tournament, the team will participate in a rigorous 12-day training camp in Brazil, alongside a dozen other nations. They are set to depart for Foz do Iguaçu on April 5th.
Interim High Performance Head Coach Damian Kennedy expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, stating, “The squad has demonstrated exceptional discipline and focus, with a strong emphasis on consistency, standards, and attention to detail in every session. This competition in Brazil will serve as a valuable benchmark for our progress, both individually and as a team, against top-tier international competition.”
Kennedy added, “We anticipate that our boxers will perform with confidence, showcasing the hard work and dedication they have put into their training. This tournament is a crucial step in our progression and will help build momentum as we aim for success at upcoming championships in China and Bulgaria later this year.”
High Performance Director Jon Mackey highlighted the comprehensive support system in place for the team, saying, “The team heading to Brazil has been backed by an extensive sports science and medicine program throughout their preparation. From strength and conditioning to recovery, nutrition, and medical oversight, every aspect has been aligned to provide the boxers with the best possible platform to perform.”
Mackey further noted, “The technical preparation under Damian’s leadership has been excellent and innovative. The support staff traveling to Brazil is highly experienced, and their expertise will be vital in delivering on that preparation in a competitive environment.”
The Irish team comprises the following boxers:
- 50kg Louis Rooney, Star BC, Belfast
- 51kg Daina Moorehouse, Enniskerry Boxing Club, Wicklow
- 54kg Jenny Lehane, DCU Boxing Club, Dublin
- 55kg Patsy Joyce, Olympic BC, Mullingar
- 57kg Michaela Walsh, Holy Family GG Boxing Club, Belfast
- 60kg Jude Gallagher, Two Castles OBA, Tyrone
- 65kg Dean Clancy, Sean McDermott Boxing Club, Leitrim
- 70kg Evelyn Igharo, Clann Naofa Boxing Club, Louth
- 70kg Jon McConnell, Holy Trinity Boxing Club, Belfast
- 80kg Josh Olaniyan, Jobstown Boxing Club, Dublin
- 90kg Jack Marley, Monkstown Boxing Club, Dublin
The support staff includes:
- Team Lead/Head Coach: Damian Kennedy
- Coaches: Lynne McEnery, James Doyle, Jay Delaney
- Physio: Rob Tuomey
- PA: Alan Swanton
With a strong team and comprehensive support, Ireland is set to make a significant impact at the World Boxing Cup in Brazil.
Team_TBE Boxing
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