Inquest into Boxer's Death: Weight Loss & Brain Injury Link

0:00On March 26, an inquest into the death of 28-year-old boxer John Cooney from Galway is said to explore possible links between extreme weight loss and his fatal brain injury. Cooney passed away in February last year after suffering a bleed on the brain during a tidal fight at Belfast's Ulster Hall. He received treatment at the Royal Victoria Hospital, but did not survive. Family members believed the harsh weight-cutting practices before the weigh-in contributed to his condition. His methods often involve rapid dehydration, which could weaken fighters heading into bouts. His loved ones want the inquiry to push for better safeguards and boxing, including stricter medical checks and rules on weight management. They hope it uncovers issues in how the sport regulates fighter's health overall. At a recent preliminary hearing, lawyers for the family called for a hydration expert to testify on pre-fight weight loss risks. The referee from the bout and Cooney's father joined via video link. The corner scheduled the next hearing from May 6th, with the full inquest expected later

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