Glenn Byrne rushed to hospital following brutal William Crolla knockout
Irish boxer Glenn Byrne has been taken to hospital for precautionary scans following a brutal seventh-round knockout defeat by William Crolla in Altrincham.
The 29-year-old was reported to be in good spirits while awaiting the results of a CT scan, having received oxygen in the ring at Planet Ice.
The super-welterweight contest was halted in the seventh round, marking the first defeat of the Dubliner’s professional career.
Referee heavily criticised after dramatic bout
The dramatic conclusion followed a punishing contest where the Irish fighter had previously dominated proceedings.
He successfully floored his English opponent three times during the second round and once more in the fifth with a precise right hand to the jaw.
Observers and the fighter’s own team expressed severe frustration that referee Ron Kearney allowed the bruising encounter to continue for so long.
A statement from JB Promotions, run by trainer and brother Jay Byrne, provided a positive health update while condemning the officiating.
“Glenn is in good spirits, chatting, laughing and joking. Just waiting on results of CT scan,” the statement read.
“Boxing is a tough, tough sport and referees like that are what ruin our sport.”
Hearn praises resilient victor
The victory improves the younger sibling of former WBA lightweight champion Anthony Crolla to a 10-1 professional record.
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn admitted the gruelling bout was potentially career-saving for the victorious fighter.
“What you saw in there was a desperate man quite honestly fighting for his career and he just had to find a way,” Eddie Hearn stated.
“Like I said, it’s difficult to celebrate until we know Glenn Byrne is ok, but massive respect to both.”
The defeat leaves the previously unbeaten challenger with a professional record of seven wins, one draw, and one devastating loss.
