Kieran Joyce - Cork's 'Boxer of the Century' - Part 2

In Part 2 of The Rocky Road with Kieran Joyce, Cork’s Boxer of the Century, we tell the story of his career from the 1984 Olympics onwards, from Los Angeles to Seoul, where he boxed at his second Games. By then Kieran was a six-time Irish Elite champion and a dangerous man. He’d picked up experience all over the world and had beaten several future world professional champions – including Dublin’s Steve Collins. But again – spoiler alert – the dreaded split decision verdict was waiting in the wings for him. Kieran pulls back the curtain on a legendary amateur career, revealing his secrets and stories: why sugar was his weight-loss secret, and how he gave Wayne McCullough his ‘Pocket Rocket’ nickname (the bill’s in the post, Wayne). We delve into what made his Sunnyside BC coach, Albie Murphy, such a great influence, and the dedication his parents put into his, and his siblings’, lives. Kieran also discusses why he hung up his gloves while still a young man, why he probably doesn’t get enough credit as a coach, and why a move into the professional ranks just didn’t happen. Finally, in a poignant and moving segment, Kieran pays a deeply felt tribute to his beloved daughter, Emma, who tragically died in 2021 after contracting meningitis. This is a must-listen journey through triumph, heartbreak and resilience.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.