Irish Boxing and MMA: The Latest News and Updates
Irish Boxing and MMA fighters continue to make waves, with recent historic achievements, knockout performances, and upcoming fights that have fans buzzing. From the O’Rourke sisters making history in the World Boxing Championships to Paul Hughes headlining a PFL event in Belfast, here’s the latest on Ireland’s top combat sports athletes.
O’Rourke Sisters Make Boxing History at World Championships
Irish Boxing has seen remarkable growth and recognition on the world stage, inspiring a new generation of athletes.
- Event: IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships, Serbia
- Result: Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke both win silver medals
Ireland’s Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke made history this weekend by becoming the first-ever siblings to reach World Championship finals in the same tournament. The two sisters fought their way to the top in Serbia, securing silver medals in their respective weight classes.
- Aoife O’Rourke (75kg) – A four-time European gold medalist, Aoife took on Russia’s Anastasiia Shamonova in the final but fell short in a tough bout.
- Lisa O’Rourke (70kg) – The 2022 World Champion stepped into the ring against Russia’s Elena Gapeshina in her final match but was unable to claim her second world title.
Despite the losses, the O’Rourke sisters have cemented themselves as two of Ireland’s top boxing talents, and their performances in Serbia are a sign of even bigger things to come.
Callum Walsh Stuns Madison Square Garden with Knockout Win
- Event: Fight Night at Madison Square Garden
- Result: Callum Walsh knocks out Dean Sutherland in the first round
Irish boxing’s rising star Callum Walsh (24) delivered a stunning knockout performance at Madison Square Garden, defeating Scotland’s Dean Sutherland in the first round. The Cork native, who is backed by UFC CEO Dana White, has now improved his professional record to 13-0, with 11 knockouts.
The knockout has been called a “KO of the Year” contender, showcasing Walsh’s raw power and potential to become Ireland’s next boxing superstar.
What’s Next?
Walsh is already eyeing bigger fights in 2025, with some speculating a major title fight could be on the horizon.
Conor McGregor’s UFC Return in Doubt?
- Latest Update: Spotted in Dublin, focusing on business ventures
- Fight Status: Uncertainty around his UFC return
UFC superstar Conor McGregor continues to make headlines, but not necessarily for his return to the octagon. Recently, McGregor was spotted hosting a night out with the Nelk Boys at his Black Forge Inn Pub in Dublin, leading fans to question whether he is fully committed to his UFC comeback.
- McGregor was originally scheduled to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303, but UFC President Dana White has cast doubt on the fight actually happening.
- Instead, McGregor has been focusing on his business empire and his Hollywood debut in the remake of ‘Road House’, alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
Will McGregor Return?
With no confirmed fight date and continued speculation about his training, many are beginning to doubt whether McGregor will ever make a full UFC comeback.
🔗 More on McGregor’s Uncertain Future
Paul Hughes to Headline PFL Event in Belfast
- Event: PFL Belfast, May 10, 2025
- Fight: Paul Hughes vs. Bruno Miranda (Lightweight bout)
Irish MMA star Paul Hughes is set to headline the Professional Fighters League (PFL) event in Belfast, taking on Brazilian Muay Thai specialist Bruno Miranda. Hughes is returning to his home country for the first time since 2019, and fans are eagerly awaiting his next fight.
What’s at Stake?
- Hughes is aiming for a rematch with Usman Nurmagomedov, after suffering a controversial decision loss in their last fight.
- With a win against Miranda, Hughes could be one step closer to securing a PFL title shot.
Hughes on Fighting in Belfast:
“I’m looking forward to putting on a show in front of the Irish crowd. I’ve been working hard, and this is just the beginning.”
🔗 More on Hughes’ Upcoming Fight
Irish Combat Sports Thriving in 2025
With historic performances from the O’Rourke sisters, knockout wins from Callum Walsh, and major MMA events on the horizon, it’s an exciting time for Irish boxing and MMA. While Conor McGregor’s future remains uncertain, rising stars like Paul Hughes and Callum Walsh are proving that Ireland’s fight scene is stronger than ever.
Which Irish fighter are you most excited to watch in 2025? Let us know in the comments!
🔗 For more fight updates, visit Itson.ie.
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