World lightweight champion Kellie Harrington will miss next month's European Boxing Championships with a hand injury.
IABA high-performance coach Bernard Dunne has confirmed that the Dubliner will miss the tournament as she's still recovering from a thumb injury sustained at the European Games.
Harrington had to sit out the final in Minsk last month with the issue and Dunne says they don't want to aggravate the injury ahead of the Worlds later this year.
"It’s unfortunate this injury has arisen, but the right decision has been made that she doesn’t compete. It is unfortunate that hand injuries are part and parcel of boxing, but we need to manage it the right way to ensure a quick return to action.”
The 29-year-old is set to defend her title at the tournament in Ulan-Ude in October.
While former Ireland head-coach Billy Walsh feels Joe Ward's achievement of landing a European gold medal at just 17 will never be matched by another Irish boxer.
The Westmeath southpaw has joined the pro ranks this summer and details of his first professional ranks will be revealed next week.
"Joe has compiled a record that will be very difficult to match." now USA coach Walsh told the Irish Independent.
"Winning an Elite European Championships at 17 won't be equalled. He leaves Team Ireland with a legacy of being one of our greatest amateur boxers."
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