Bernard Dunne Captures Ireland's
First World Boxing Title in 13 Years
By MARK TRAYNOR
Irishman Bernard Dunne became WBA Super Bantamweight champion on March 21 by knocking out Panama's Ricardo Cordoba in one of the greatest fights ever held on Irish soil.
In what can only be described as an explosive battle of will and skill, Dunne (28-1) knocked down Cordoba (34-2-2) in the third round, with the Dubliner succumbing to the canvas himself twice in the fifth.
The contest was finally halted in Round 11 by Canadian referee Hubert Earle when Dunne floored Cordoba three times, sending the 24-year-old out on a stretcher and handing Ireland its first world title belt in 13 years.
"This is a fight that will long be remembered," chimed commentator Jimmy Magee, each word uttered without an ounce of hyperbole.
Cordoba, who was favoured to win the fight, recovered in hospital but was released two days later, suffering from exhaustion and dehydration.
"This is for all of us," an exultant Dunne announced afterwards, as crowds celebrated a doubly fine day for Irish sport - the Irish rugby team winning their first Six Nations Grand Slam in 61 years that very evening.
Few believed Dunne could overcome the champion, particularly after his devastating first round loss to Spaniard Kiko Martinez in 2007.
But since his promoter Brian Peters - rumoured to have pumped millions of Euro into the bout - announced the world title challenge in the new year, the Dubliner insisted he would capture the belt.
Using a powerful left jab and intelligent footwork, Dunne matched the pace set by Cordoba in the early rounds.
By the third he had Cordoba on the canvas, but, displaying the tenacity which he showed throughout the fight, the Panamanian weathered the storm and floored Dunne twice in the fifth.
From there the tension continued to mount - Cordoba frequently pressing Dunne against the ropes using a sharp jab and weighty rights, only to be rocked by the Dubliner's powerful counter combinations.
With the 9,000 strong crowd on their feet, relief came in Round 11 when Dunne knocked Cordoba down three times, forcing the referee to call a halt to the contest.
"It was a lot of hard work, by me, my team and my family. A lot of sacrifices went into getting this title but they've all paid off," the 29-year-old told the press afterwards.
The win has cemented Dunne's name as a top contender in the Super Bantamweight division, with a possible bout between Israel Vazquez in Las Vegas in September said to be on the cards.
Mark Traynor is a freelance writer based in Dublin.
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