Beyond The Ropes: Niamh Keogh
It started one Christmas when she was just 8 years old. But now, the County Westmeath-born fighter is now fifty-fights into her boxing life. “I got a boxing bag for Christmas when I was 8 and started from there,” Keogh says of that initial introduction to boxing.
The 18-year-old describes her early formative years as, “A good upbringing with a close family. A supportive network that can only help as her boxing career advances.
“I love competing and representing my country,” Keogh added to my question of what the attraction of her sport is. “It gives me discipline and goals to work towards.”
Keogh had to wait three years for her first fight. But at just 11, Keogh made her first ring walk. Seven Irish National titles have followed that debut. A silver medal at the European Championships plus multiple Box Cups litter her resume.
“Winning my the Nationals this year and representing Ireland at the Europeans,” Keogh says is her proudest achievement to date.
Like many fighters, Keogh is inspired by two all-time greats who in different ways have done great things for women’s boxing. “Kelly Harrington and Katie Taylor are big inspirations, especially as both are Irish. Seeing them achieve gives a bit more belief to all young girls.”
Boxing takes up most of her time, but a couple of other sports take up what little spare time Keogh has. “I’ve played camogie and football all my life, so whenever I get a chance, I play the odd match when I’ve no boxing coming up.”
Keogh is targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but there are already thoughts of entering the paid ranks. “After the next Olympics, I would love to turn over and move to America,” Keogh told FightPost.
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