By Paul O’Donovan
“I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ve loved every moment of it. It’s been a dream come true for me to box at this competition, something I’ve always wanted, and to be part of an amazing Irish team at the Olympic Games,” said Mullingar boxer Davey Oliver Joyce after he exited the games having been defeated by Albert Selimov in the 60Kg bout on Tuesday of last week in Rio, Brazil.
Meanwhile there was similar disappointment for Moate boxer Joe Ward. Ward was beaten in his light-heavyweight contest by Ecuadorian Carlos Andrés Mina on Wednesday night of last week.
Ward, who lost points for two public warnings from the referee, was critical of the official after the fight, saying, “I’m disappointed the way the referee got involved in the fight.” Ward’s bout turned out to be a dour contest with a lot of holding and tangling but Ward felt the public warnings cost him. “The two points effectively cost me the fight. I was winning but it was very hard to come back after losing those points,” said Ward.
JOYCE SAYS THANKS
Meanwhile soon after his defeat, Joyce thanked all those from Mullingar and across the country that had supported him over the years and throughout his journey to Rio.
“I just want to thank you all for all the messages of good luck and support. It means a lot and that’s coming from my heart. It just wasn’t my day. I gave everything I had in the tank and I couldn’t have given any more. I came out the wrong side. I could have won it, but I’m not going to take away from him, I’m not like that. He (Selimov) is a true champion and one of the best. It was going to take someone like that to beat me. My best just wasn’t good enough on the day. So I just want to thank you all for sticking with me for the last number of years that I’ve been boxing, through the good and bad times, and for supporting me at the senior championship and also at home. I’ve had some good years at this game and also bad, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ve loved every moment of it. It has been a pleasure to wear the Irish vest at such a high level and I’ve always been a proud man when I’ve put it on. Now I will take some time off and then I will see what is the best thing for me and my family. Thanks again,” concluded Davy Oliver.
