Huge weekend for Birr K1 Kickboxing & Self-Defence Club
Historic first European title for Birr kickboxer Conor Hynes
MAY 15th 2026 marked the beginning of a massive weekend for Birr K1 Kickboxing & Self-Defence Club, with fighters representing the club across Ireland, England and North of Ireland in three major events.
The action began on Friday, May 15th, as two of Birr K1's top fighters travelled to separate title bouts. Scott Carey, representing the club in the Irish K1 scene, headed north to Portadown, Co. Armagh, alongside coach Raphael Creamer and Roisin Dowling. Scott was set to challenge for the prestigious Jackhammer Irish Middleweight K1 Title.
Following successful weigh-ins on Friday evening, all that remained was to pass the mandatory medical examination on Saturday before stepping into the ring to contest the Irish title.
At the same time, Conor Hynes and Jack Kirwan made the journey from County Offaly to York, England, where he was preparing to challenge for the IBKO European Title. Conor proudly represented himself, his family, his friends, and Birr K1 Kickboxing Club on the international stage.
Saturday proved to be a day of unforgettable action.
In Portadown, Scott Carey delivered a courageous and spirited performance in his Irish title challenge. Over four hard-fought rounds, Scott displayed tremendous heart, bravery, skill, and determination against a high-level opponent. Despite giving everything he had, the decision was made to retire on the stool before the fifth round. While the title wasn't to be his on this occasion, Scott's performance showed exactly the qualities expected of a fighter competing at Irish championship level, earning enormous respect from everyone involved.
Meanwhile in York, Conor Hynes was writing his own piece of Birr K1 history.
Facing Daniel Morgan, the man who had defeated him in the semi-finals of the WKO World Kickboxing Championships just a few years earlier, Conor was given the perfect opportunity to avenge that loss.
The fight got off to the worst possible start, with Conor being knocked down twice in the opening round and suffering significant damage. However, showing incredible composure and championship character, he recovered, regrouped, and returned for round two with renewed determination.
What followed was a remarkable turnaround. Conor stormed back into the contest, putting Daniel Morgan down three times in the second round and forcing a stoppage to become the new IBKO European Champion.
The victory was historic, making Conor Hynes the first fighter from Birr and Offaly to win a European title in full-contact kickboxing.
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The busy weekend continued on Sunday, May 17th, when Birr K1 had two more fighters in action at a show in Waterford.
Alan Ginson competed in a competitive K1 contest and was unfortunate to lose a very close split decision after a strong performance.
Young John Lambe stepped into the ring for the first time and made a dream debut, producing an impressive display to secure victory in his first-ever ring bout.
Reflecting on the weekend, Birr K-1 can be immensely proud of its fighters and coaches. Across two countries and three events, the club showcased the dedication, talent, and fighting spirit that has become synonymous with Birr K-1.
Four fighters. Three shows. One club
This is what Birr K-1 Kickboxing & Self-Defence Club is all about — preparing athletes, creating opportunities, and testing themselves against the very best opponents in the strongest organisations available.
The results may not always go their way, but the commitment, courage, and ambition shown by every Birr K-1 fighter this weekend demonstrate exactly why the club continues to grow and succeed on both the national and international stage.