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31 Jan 2026
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31 Jan 2026
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BOXING
The winner of the 2025 Boxing Award is Matthew McCole, Illies Golden Gloves A.B.C.
Matthew enjoyed a truly outstanding year, firmly cementing his place among Donegal’s finest boxing talents. The Dungloe native and ATU Donegal student powered his way to the senior light-middleweight title in March, claiming his sixth college title.
The highlight of his year came in June when he captured the Irish Elite Light-Middleweight Championship, defeating Eugene McKeever by a commanding 4–1 unanimous decision. In doing so, he became the first Donegal man in 50 years to claim the prestigious belt; an achievement that fulfilled a lifelong dream shared with his beloved grandfather, Hudie McCole.
Matthew’s performances earned him selection on Ireland’s 17-strong squad for the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, and he was later honoured with the Harry ‘Kid’ Duffy Award as Donegal’s best elite boxer.
A previous Donegal Sports Star Award winner, it is fitting to welcome Matthew McCole on stage once again tonight.
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