Irish Boxer Aidan Walsh backed out from competing in men’s welterweight semi-finals in Tokyo Olympics after injuring his ankle while celebrating quarter final victory. The 24-year-old boxer was about to fight Britain’s Pat McCormack for the journey to the finals today morning. Walsh being forced to walk out, McCormack automatically qualified for the finals and will fight to win gold.
Walsh, who is from Belfast in Northern Ireland had won in quarter finals against Merven Clair of Mauritus for 4:1 on Friday. But during the winning celebration he injured the ankle himself which led to fail in medical test conducted today. He had to leave the arena in a wheelchair on Friday.
In the meantime, Walsh will be awarded with the bronze medal as he qualified for the semi-finals. “What Aidan did this week is an incredible achievement,” said boxing team leader Bernard Dunne. “His performance throughout the tournament has been outstanding. And it is great to see him write his name in the annals of Irish sport.’’ Dunne added.