‘Hero of the World’ – WBC honour heavyweight Niall Kennedy

Boxer and Frontline worker Niall Kennedy [13(8)-1(1)-1] was named ‘Hero of the World’ by the World Boxing Council this week.

The governing body behind Silver, Diamond and Franchise belts came up with a new title especially for the Wexford Heavyweight.

However, this is one title that won’t be criticized as it honours the Murphys Boxing heavyweight for his work outside boxing.

Kennedy was nominated for his efforts as a Garda by his trainer and manager Pascal Collins and New York promoter Lou DiBella.

“A very proud weekend, I received this award from the WBC having been nominated by my manager and trainer Paschal Collins and more to my surprise, the legendary promoter Lou DiBella,” Kennedy said, who recently turned 36, on social media.

“And then I wake up this morning to my little man singing happy birthday – makes my 21st all the more special!”

The certificate, signed by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, says, ‘Thank you for keeping the world safe’.

‘Boom Boom Baz’ has not fought since his first career defeat, suffered back in August.

The heavyweight lost to former Olympian Devin Vargas after suffering a recurrence of a back injury in the seconds leading up to the fight.