AARON MCKENNA WINS IBF MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE IN DUBLIN

Aaron McKenna claimed the IBF world middleweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Etinosa Oliha at Dublin's 3Arena in his first professional fight on Irish soil. The Monaghan fighter extended his unbeaten record to 21-0 across 12 rounds at Zuffa Boxing 10. Judges awarded McKenna scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112, handing Oliha his first professional defeat and reducing the Italian's record to 22-1.

McKenna controlled much of the contest, gradually establishing his rhythm after a cagey opening in which Oliha applied early pressure. The 27-year-old repeatedly landed his jab and uppercut whilst using his range to avoid Oliha's heavier attacks, forcing his opponent onto the ropes and landing combinations to the head and body. A clash of heads left McKenna bleeding in the eleventh round, but he remained composed and continued to frustrate Oliha with his movement and defence through the final round.

McKenna stated afterwards that he had pursued the moment since childhood and encouraged others not to give up on their ambitions. He said Oliha had provided a stronger challenge than expected but that he had secured the victory. McKenna expressed willingness to face any challenger and stated his intention to claim additional titles at middleweight and super-middleweight.