Aaron McKenna Wins IBF Middleweight Title in Dublin

Aaron McKenna won the IBF world middleweight title on his first professional fight in Ireland, defeating previously unbeaten Etinosa Oliha at Dublin’s 3Arena. McKenna, from Monaghan, improved his professional record to 21-0 with a unanimous decision victory, earning scores of 118-110, 117-111, and 116-112 from the judges.

This victory handed Oliha, now 22-1, his first professional defeat. McKenna expressed his joy at fulfilling a childhood dream after nine years as a professional without fighting in Ireland, stating, “A new world champion.

I said it for years.” He acknowledged that Oliha presented a tougher challenge than anticipated but remained confident, stating he is open to facing any challengers now that he holds a title. The fight saw McKenna gradually take control, utilizing his jab and uppercut effectively while avoiding Oliha’s attacks.

Despite sustaining a cut from a clash of heads in the 11th round, McKenna maintained composure and continued to land clean shots, culminating in a celebratory atmosphere as the final bell rang.