Kennedy punches his way to a dozen pro wins
NIALL KENNEDY is back keeping the streets of Co. Wicklow safe today but on Saturday evening, he was punching his way to his 12th professional boxing victory in Boston.
Kennedy, a Garda from Co. Wexford, kicked off the card for Katie Taylor’s victory in the TD Garden with a convincing points victory over ex-MMA fighter Brendan Barrett.
The 34-year old’s record now stands at 12-0-1. Saturday’s success marked his return to winning ways after a draw at the same venue in June.
With his beloved Naomh Eanna represented on his socks, Kennedy paved the way for a weekend of fierce celebrations in Gorey as he had his arms raised in victory hours before the Gorey club clinched their first ever senior championship.
Barrett was Kennedy’s 13th opponent and - having been thrown to the ground at one stage by the American - Kennedy reveals he was also the most unusual with some of Barrett’s MMA DNA yet to leave his system.
‘I thought there was a choke coming next when he threw me down. He was unorthodox to say the least. I have a dead right arse cheek and I don’t think I’m supposed to have one of those in boxing.’
Throughout the contest, Kennedy seemed in control but was unable to finish off Barrett and although he was a tad frustrated by it, it is something that he will learn from.
‘I would have loved to have stopped him. He was gone in the fifth but he had the smarts to stay in close so I couldn’t finish him off. I have to be busier with my jab.’