TRIBUTES have been paid across Fermanagh and Donegal following the death of boxing great Paddy Doherty.

The Ballyshannon man was a hugely respected figure in border boxing circles, enjoying a remarkable career that brought pride to his county and country.

A member of St John Bosco Boxing Club, Paddy was a five-time Irish champion, three-time Ulster senior champion and multiple All-Ireland senior champion.

He reached the highest level of amateur boxing, winning a bronze medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh.

He also holds a special place in Irish sporting history, having boxed on the same historic Croke Park programme as Muhammad Ali in 1972.

Fond memories

In a statement, the Donegal Boxing Board said it was ‘deeply saddened’ to learn of Paddy’s passing, describing him as ‘a true legend of Donegal boxing’.

“Beyond the titles, medals and achievements, Paddy was a proud Donegal man, a great character and a passionate supporter of boxing,” the statement added.

The board also paid tribute to his contribution to the sport, saying his legacy would live on through the generations of boxers who followed in his footsteps.

It extended its deepest sympathies to Paddy’s wife Lelia, his family and friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.