Pierce O’Leary successfully defended his WBC International super-lightweight championship in an exciting unanimous decision victory over Darragh Foley in a Dubliner showdown at the SSE Arena in Belfast. The judges scored it 98-91, 98-91, and 99-90 in O’Leary’s favor, highlighting his cleaner work and skill in the ring. O’Leary expressed his satisfaction with the performance and indicated his readiness for a world-title shot, emphasizing his execution of the game plan and commitment to improvement.
The fight commenced at a fast pace, with O’Leary showcasing his prowess with a sharp right uppercut that had Foley momentarily wobbled in the opening round. This momentum carried into the second round where O’Leary floored Foley with a decisive punch, though Foley displayed resilience and continued to fight back. As the rounds progressed, O’Leary’s technical superiority became evident as he landed stinging punches and combinations, leaving Foley struggling to mount a significant offense.
Despite Foley’s efforts to press forward and find openings, O’Leary maintained control of the fight with his precision and effective striking. Foley managed to have moments of success in the fourth and fifth rounds, but it was not enough to overcome O’Leary’s dominance. O’Leary’s calculated combinations and well-timed punches kept him ahead on the scorecards, with Foley unable to match his opponent’s skill level.
The intensity of the match persisted throughout, with both fighters exchanging blows and seeking a decisive victory. O’Leary’s strategic approach and Foley’s relentless determination created an engaging spectacle for the audience. As the final bell rang, signaling the conclusion of the bout, the fighters exhibited sportsmanship by acknowledging each other’s efforts, showcasing mutual respect in the ring.
In a separate title fight, Conner Kelsall claimed the vacant Commonwealth flyweight title with a majority decision win over Conor Quinn in a subdued contest. Kelsall’s elusive movement and strategic jabbing proved effective against Quinn, who struggled to find his rhythm throughout the fight. Despite Quinn’s efforts to increase his output and land significant punches, Kelsall’s control of the ring and defensive tactics secured him the victory.
Colm Murphy’s dominant performance against Jack Turner led to a technical knockout victory, earning him the vacant Commonwealth silver featherweight championship. Murphy’s relentless pressure and precision striking overwhelmed Turner, culminating in a stoppage before the final round. Earlier bouts featured impressive victories by Jadier Herrera, Joe Cooper, and Stephen Cairns, highlighting the diverse talent and skill on display in the boxing event.
The night concluded with a showcase of promising talent as Jack D Turner secured a comfortable points win to maintain his undefeated record. The event was a testament to the competitiveness and sportsmanship of the boxing community, showcasing the dedication and skill of the fighters in each bout.
As the boxing action unfolded in Belfast, the audience witnessed thrilling displays of athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship, underscoring the enduring appeal of the sport. With each bout offering unique narratives and standout performances, the fighters left a lasting impression on fans and spectators alike. The event served as a platform for emerging talents to shine and established champions to reaffirm their dominance in the ring, setting the stage for future encounters and memorable moments in the world of boxing.
