HE'S LIGHTING UP THE JUNGLE AND IN 1985 BARRY MCGUIGAN LIT UP THE SPORTING WORLD

THE 'Clones Cyclone' was not just a revered fighter but a man who had brought Irish communities together.

- CHRIS MCKENNA

Back in 1985, Northern Ireland was more in the news for hatred and violence.

Bombs and bullets rained down as Republicans and Unionists fought ugly battles on the streets. Barry McGuigan was seen as a unifying figure. 'Leave the fighting to McGuigan' would be a wellworn quote of the time.

Born just over the border in the Republic of Ireland, McGuigan fought for both sides inside the ring and tried to bring everyone together outside of it. As a Catholic, he married a Protestant.