Former boxing world champion Joe Cordina has been acquitted of assaulting Jamie O'Brien after a confrontation outside a petrol station in Pentwyn, Cardiff, in February. The incident, which resulted in Cordina being barred from entering the United States for a WBO lightweight title match, concluded with a trial at Cardiff Magistrates' Court.

District Judge Charlotte Murphy declared Cordina not guilty of assault by beating, stating she was "satisfied" that Cordina acted in self-defense.

Key points from the trial include:

• Cordina's belief that using force was necessary to defend himself.
• Judge Murphy noted that Cordina’s response—a single, measured punch—was proportionate given the circumstances.
• The incident was captured on CCTV, showing O'Brien pushing Cordina with his shoulder before Cordina responded with a punch that knocked O'Brien to the ground.

The confrontation escalated as both men continued to exchange blows. O'Brien, who is from Pentwyn, had previously pled guilty to assault by beating. Police initiated an investigation after the footage of the altercation circulated online.