13/10/2026
DEFENCE FORCES BOXING TEAM vs ROYAL NAVY – A HISTORIC NIGHT IN PORTSMOUTH 🥊
05–09 October 2026 | Portsmouth, United Kingdom
The Defence Forces Boxing Team returned from Portsmouth following an outstanding week of international boxing, culminating in a truly memorable night against the Royal Navy on Thursday, 08 October 2026. From the moment our team arrived, the hospitality, professionalism and generosity extended by our Royal Navy counterparts were exceptional. The standard of boxing, the atmosphere and the overall production of the event made this a historic occasion for Defence Forces Boxing and an experience our athletes will remember for many years to come.
A special word of appreciation must go to Sgt Dan Ward, Royal Navy Head Coach, whose extraordinary commitment, professionalism and tireless work throughout the week were instrumental in making this international fixture such an overwhelming success. Dan ensured our boxers and coaches had access to outstanding training facilities and that every aspect of our preparation was catered for. His dedication to military boxing and genuine friendship towards our team were evident throughout our visit. He is a tremendous ambassador for Royal Navy Boxing, and we are extremely grateful for everything he did.
We must also acknowledge Commodore Mike Farrage, the driving force behind this magnificent event. His vision, enthusiasm and determination to bring both teams together ensured that fight night was an outstanding production, providing a stage and atmosphere worthy of the occasion. The professionalism of the entire Royal Navy organisation was exceptional.
🥊 OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES IN THE RING
Every boxer who represented the Defence Forces demonstrated courage, skill, determination and tremendous pride in wearing the Irish vest. The contests were fiercely competitive, with some outstanding individual performances.
Pte Rachel Lawless produced a superb display of technical boxing, demonstrating all her international experience, composure and natural ring flair to secure a thoroughly deserved victory. Rachel's outstanding performance was recognised when she was awarded Best Boxer of the Night, a tremendous achievement on such a prestigious occasion.
Cpl Jamie Long, our Team Captain, led by example with an excellent points victory against a very tough Royal Navy opponent. Jamie used his superior reach, experience and intelligent ringcraft to control the contest and secure a well-earned win.
Pte Sean Mari was involved in one of the most exciting encounters of the evening. In a ferocious, action-packed contest that had the crowd on its feet, Sean demonstrated exceptional skill, composure and experience to claim a memorable points victory.
Pte TJ King produced arguably the fight of the night against highly regarded English international Marine Connor Fanning, recognised as one of the UK's leading 75kg boxers. TJ matched his accomplished opponent throughout three fiercely contested rounds, displaying tremendous courage, ability and determination. Although narrowly losing on a split decision, his performance was a credit to himself and the Defence Forces.
At 65kg, Pte Ben Molloy faced former English Youth Champion Reece Gannon in an exceptionally skilful contest. Both boxers displayed moments of real class, producing a bout that epitomised the high standards and technical excellence expected of elite military boxing. In a closely contested encounter, Reece emerged victorious by split decision. This was Ben’s first military international, and he can take immense pride in his performance, demonstrating both his ability and potential at this level.
Sgt Eoghan Wright demonstrated enormous heart, resilience and determination against a strong, exceptionally well-conditioned Royal Navy opponent. Despite coming up short, Eoghan gave everything in the ring and represented his team with tremendous pride.
Pte Shauna Kearney featured in the prestigious 70kg main event against former British Champion LPT Sophie Colboum. Shauna showed incredible courage and fighting spirit, refusing to take a backward step against an exceptionally accomplished opponent. Although losing on points, her determination and performance provided a fitting conclusion to a memorable night of international boxing.
👏 THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE TEAM
Success at this level is never achieved by the boxers alone. Behind every performance is a dedicated group of coaches and support personnel whose commitment to Defence Forces Boxing is exceptional.
CS Tommy Sheahan led from the front throughout our training programme, bringing tremendous energy, experience and leadership to every session.
Pte Ross Hickey continues to establish himself as one of the most accomplished and promising boxing coaches in Ireland. His technical knowledge, attention to detail and ability to develop and motivate our athletes are invaluable to the team.
CQMS Andy Brennan brings over 25 years of experience as both a boxer and coach at the highest levels of military boxing. His knowledge, professionalism and continued commitment to our athletes remain an enormous asset to Defence Forces Boxing.
Sgt Stephen Kelly was another invaluable member of our travelling party. His contribution throughout the training camp was exceptional, while his professionalism and expertise as a referee and judge earned considerable praise during the event in Portsmouth. He continues to represent Irish military boxing with distinction.
⭐ SGT JOHN MOLLOY – THE FOUNDATION OF DEFENCE FORCES BOXING
Finally, a very special acknowledgement must go to our Head Coach, Sgt John Molloy. John's extraordinary work ethic, unwavering dedication and personal commitment to Defence Forces Boxing were central to the success of this international fixture.
Working tirelessly both before and throughout our visit, John coordinated closely with the Defence Forces and Royal Navy coaching teams, ensuring our athletes were prepared to perform at their very best. His leadership extends far beyond the boxing ring. He sets the standards, leads by example and creates an environment where every boxer feels valued, supported and motivated to succeed. John embodies the values of the Irish Defence Forces through his actions every single day. His loyalty, integrity, professionalism and genuine care for the people around him are qualities that define him both as a coach and as a soldier.
Rachel Lawless Shauna Kearney Seán Mari Ross Hickey Óglaigh na hÉireann / Irish Defence Forces Boxing Ireland St Brigid's Boxing Club Edenderry
