Limerick youngster TJ Moloney claims All-Ireland title for Rathkeale Boxing Club

ON the final weekend of the All-Ireland Championships for 11-16 year olds, highly rated Limerick boxer TJ Moloney, produced the most heroic of displays to win the 91kg Junior 1 National title in Dublin.

Fighting the more experienced Brendan Mongan, of Dealgan BC, Dundalk, Croagh native TJwas up against it in just his first year of competitive boxing.

Moloney's task was made all the more difficult when Mongan began the bout aggressively landing some telling blows and forcing the referee to give the Rathkeale boxer a standing eight count.

Showing tremendous heart, grit and determination, Moloney regrouped at the interval and began landing some clean right hands in round two.

Mongan finished the second round strongly but seemed to tire or wilt at the resistance of Moloney. Knowing he was behind on the scorecards going into the final round the Limerick boxer threw caution to the wind and piled the pressure on Mongan.

A devastating left hook from Moloney saw the referee intervene and give Mongan a standing count. Once the ref resumed the action Moloney was relentless with his pressure landing unanswered blows and forcing a third round stoppage.

Moloney joins John Mongans as National Champion for 2023 in what was a busy year for the club. Rathkeale BC has thanked all their boxers, coaches, parents and supporters for their effort throughout the season.