AN Irish boxing champion yesterday posted a video insisting he had not been arrested after footage emerged of him being confronted by "vigilantes".
Conor Wallace (21), who is due to box in the Commonwealth Games in Australia in April, had earlier been filmed a hotel in his native Newry.
Less than three hours later, he posted a video on his Facebook page in reference to "videos circulating on Facebook of me being confronted by a group of men and women".
The six-time All-Ireland champion said he was lured to the Canal Court Hotel to train a man who had contacted him on Snapchat.
"I was met by a group of vigilante-style people who made all kinds of accusations against me," he said.
"I would like to make it public that I have not been arrested nor charged with anything.
"The PSNI took me for my own safety, after a member of the public rang the PSNI after he witnessed me being cornered by men wearing knuckle dusters etc.
"I appreciate all your help and support in this matter. This is all I can say as my legal team is now dealing with this matter."
The video referred to by Wallace shows a series of allegations being put to a man, which he denies.
A short message accompanying the boxer's own social media post says: "This is my account of this afternoon's events."
It was widely shared and attracted supportive comments from friends.
Police said last night they "are aware of an incident in Newry today, Sunday 14 January. Enquiries are ongoing into this matter."
No arrests have been made.
In 2016, Wallace made headlines when UFC star Conor McGregor invited him to Las Vegas to help him train.
Fighting at light heavyweight, the Commonwealth Games represents the first major tournament for the rising star, who is based in Drogheda.
