World title fight OFF as Danny O’Connor is hospitalised
Danny O’Connor [30(11)-3(1)] has been pulled out of his world title challenge tonight in California.
The Irish-American light welter was due to take on WBC champ Jose Ramirez in Fresno but has been pulled out after collapsing while trying to make weight and being deemed medically unfit to fight.
No replacement, for a title fight or otherwise, is being brought in for Ramirez who will instead defend his belt later in the Summer.
While it is unconfirmed, it is suspected that 33-year-old O’Connor’s kidneys failed as he tried to dehydrate down to the 140lbs light welterweight limit,
Having begun his career as a light welter, Framingham’s O’Connor moved up to welterweight for the majority of his career. Last year he made the move down to light welter for two upset wins over Daniel Gonzalez and Steve Claggett to win and defend the WBC International Silver title and put himself in the frame for a shot at World honours.
Murphys Boxing boss Ken Casey, who also guides the careers of Spike O’Sullivan and Niall Kennedy said last night that “Danny O’Connor title fight off as he is admitted to hospital with severe dehydration and possible kidney failure (awaiting test results).”
“Danny woke this morning 2 pounds over weight which is perfectly normal . As he worked to lose the final two pounds before the afternoon weigh in it just wouldn’t come off. He collapsed leaving the sauna and EMT’s were called and he was rushed to the hospital and admitted suspecting his kidneys may have shut down.”
“Please keep Danny in your prayers. He is in good hands now at the hospital.”
O’Connor came round a few hours later and said on Twitter that it was “heartbreaking to be rushed to the hospital and deemed medically unfit to fight the day before fighting for my first world title.”
“I let the idea of being a world champion cloud my judgment of my personal health. Nothing is more important than my health.”
“As I rest and recover with my family I ask for privacy. Thanks for all the well wishes and your continued support.”
Irish-Boxing.com wish Danny all the best in his recovery.
