Glory for Gráinne as Offaly boxer secures medal at world championships

Tullamore boxer Gráinne Walsh has recorded the biggest win of her boxing career to date by defeating 2024 Olympic silver medallist, and former world champion, Yang Liu of China at the world championships in Liverpool.

There were tears of joy for the local 29-year-old when her hand was raised after a gruelling battle at the 65kg quarter final stage this evening (Wednesday).

The win guarantees the Offaly woman at least a bronze medal in what will be her first time on the podium at the world championships.

Walsh has been boxing brilliantly at this tournament, and she required every bit of her boundless grit and tenacity to overcome a second-round point deduction against Liu.

An underdog heading into this evening contest, Walsh started well and took the first round on four of the five judges' cards.

Then came the second round setback of what seemed a harsh points deduction after the referee adjudged that she had been leading with her head when the boxers were clinching at close range.

It all came down to a close final round, which the Offaly woman won, and when the judges' cards were tallied they read: 28-28, 29-27, 28-28, 28-28 and 29-27. Because three of the five cards were level it went to a countback - which was won by Walsh.

Tricolours were waved in the crowd - and an Offaly jersey was also spotted - as supporters celebrated a landmark achievement in the hugely popular local woman's sporting journey.

With a medal assured, she will now face Kazakhstan’s Aida Abikeyeva at the semi final stage on Friday.