It’s been a dramatic few days for Irish boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA), with major announcements, retirements, and hints at future fights dominating the headlines. From Katie Taylor’s historic trilogy bout to Conor McGregor’s potential UFC exit, there’s plenty to unpack. Here’s your latest update on everything happening in the world of Irish combat sports.

Irish Boxing News

Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano: Trilogy Fight Announced

• Date: 11th July 2025
• Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York
• Streaming: Netflix (first-ever all-women’s professional boxing card on the platform)
• Background:
  • Their rivalry began in April 2022, with Katie Taylor winning the first bout in a historic split-decision victory.
  • Amanda Serrano won the rematch in November 2024, making this trilogy fight one of the most anticipated in women’s boxing history.
• Purses: Both fighters are expected to receive record-breaking purses, further elevating women’s boxing on the global stage.
• What’s at stake: Taylor aims to reclaim her titles and cement her legacy, while Serrano seeks to close the chapter with another victory.

Kellie Harrington Announces Retirement

• Medal Haul:
  • Gold at the 2018 Women’s World Boxing Championships.
  • Gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
• Reason: Opted out of the upcoming Women’s World Championships in Serbia and decided to step away from competitive boxing.
• Legacy: Harrington retires as one of Ireland’s most decorated amateur boxers, having inspired a new generation of young athletes.

Tommy McCarthy Retires from Professional Boxing

• Division: Cruiserweight
• Achievements: Former European champion.
• Final Fight: Retired following a loss to Steven Ward.
• Future Plans: McCarthy plans to focus on a career in comedy and podcasting, expressing pride in his achievements despite not becoming a world champion.

Irish MMA News

Conor McGregor Hints at UFC Exit

• Current Status: McGregor’s return to the UFC remains uncertain due to injury setbacks.
  • Pulled out of a scheduled fight against Michael Chandler last summer due to a broken left pinky toe.
• Speculation:
  • McGregor has been promoting Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships (BKFC) extensively and was seen training bare-knuckle.
  • Holds shares in BKFC, leading to speculation about a possible switch from UFC.
• Social Media Buzz: McGregor’s cryptic posts have fans guessing about his future, with many believing he may transition fully to BKFC.

Will Fleury’s Double Championship Ambition

• Latest Achievement: Won the OKTAGON light-heavyweight title.
• Next Target: Aiming for the heavyweight title to become a double champion.
• Inspiration: Cites Conor McGregor as a major influence, embracing the role of the villain in the ring.
• Fighting Style: Known for his aggressive striking and ability to thrive in hostile environments, Fleury’s next move is highly anticipated.

The Road Ahead: What to Watch For

• Katie Taylor’s trilogy bout with Amanda Serrano is expected to break viewership records and set a new standard for women’s boxing.
• Conor McGregor’s future remains the biggest mystery in Irish MMA—will he stick with the UFC, or make a shock move to BKFC?
• Will Fleury’s pursuit of a double championship could make him one of Ireland’s most successful MMA fighters if successful.

A Defining Moment for Irish Combat Sports
From historic fights to emotional retirements, Irish boxing and MMA are experiencing a transformative moment. With Katie Taylor’s legacy on the line, McGregor’s future hanging in the balance, and new stars like Will Fleury rising, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of incredible fights and defining moments.

Stay tuned to itson.ie for more updates as the drama unfolds in the ring and the octagon!