McKenna claims IBF middleweight title on Dublin debut

Aaron McKenna rules the 3Arena

The Monaghan fighter, known as ‘The Silencer’, extended his perfect record to 21-0, controlling much of the 12-round contest to win a unanimous decision, scored 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112, and handing Oliha his first professional defeat at 22-1.

A clash of heads left McKenna bleeding in the 11th, but he stayed composed and landed the cleaner shots throughout, using his jab and range to nullify Oliha’s pressure. The win places McKenna among the most eye-catching names in British boxing.

What McKenna said after his title win

A new world champion. I said it for years. Since I was six years old, I thought about this moment my whole life, so for it to finally happen at 27, it goes to show everyone, don’t give up.

McKenna, who told Sky Sports he wants to “collect every belt in boxing”, admitted Oliha had provided a sterner challenge than expected.

The 27-year-old, who waited nine years as a professional for a home bout, welcomed all challengers and declared himself “the best middleweight in the world”. A full round-by-round account was provided by BBC Sport.