All-Ireland title triumph for Joe Ward of Athlone Boxing Club

Athlone Boxing Club has a 2026 All-Ireland champion in teenager Joe Ward, who came out on top in a hard-fought final to claim the Boy 4 national title at 52kg in Dublin's National Stadium last night (Friday).

The Moate native, who is the eldest son of professional light-heavyweight Joe Ward, won five fights in the last number of weeks in order to claim the Leinster championship and then the All-Ireland crown.

In last night's high-quality final, Ward overcame Franky Mooney, of Banbridge Boxing Club in Down, on a 3-2 split decision.

The win marks his third All-Ireland championship in addition to the four Leinster titles he has secured during his impressive journey in the sport to date.

His proud father said: "Joe puts a lot of hard work into his training and it was great to see it pay off."

Athlone Boxing Club also praised his display in the final, saying: "Joe produced a great performance and had to dig deep to take the win against a very good opponent.

"Well done Joe from everyone at the club. Number one in in Ireland again!"