The curtain has fallen on another remarkable year for Cork boxers, both locally and internationally. They celebrated memorable moments, triumphant victories, and achieved an incredible milestone by bringing home a record 53 All-Ireland titles.
As 2026 approaches, the outlook for Cork boxing is promising. The clubs are well-organized, and the county board has a solid plan for events aimed at boosting the sport’s reputation.
However, Cork clubs have raised concerns regarding administrative issues at the national level, expressing dissatisfaction with certain rules and their application.
The board is set to advocate for essential changes and will present four significant motions for discussion at the national convention.
Many visitors to the new boxing wall at Bishop Lucey Park have shown interest in the displayed plaques. Over the holiday season, the story of Jack Doyle particularly captivated tourists, who sought to learn more about the life of the .
Jack Doyle is believed by many to be a boxer who never reached his full potential. He remained undefeated in over 100 amateur bouts and later joined the British Army, becoming champion boxer with an impressive record of 27 knockouts in 28 fights.
Doyle, who was 6′ 5″ tall and exceptionally talented as both a boxer and singer, became Ireland’s first sex symbol, drawing large crowds. Born in 1913, he earned £600 a week as a singer by the age of 20, even appearing in a 1933 heavyweight title bout that attracted 90,000 spectators.
Despite his fame and success, Doyle’s lifestyle began to take a toll as he neglected his training and indulged in heavy drinking. After a disqualification in his title fight, he shifted focus to his singing career, which led to both triumphs and financial struggles. He died in 1978, and the Cork Ex-Boxers Association ensured he was laid to rest in Cobh, honored by a guard of honor and a respectful farewell from fans and friends alike.
