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Aaron McKenna Claims IBF Middleweight World Title in Dublin

Posted : 10 August 2026

Aaron McKenna fulfilled a lifelong ambition by capturing the IBF middleweight world title with a unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Etinosa Oliha at Dublin’s 3Arena. The victory came in his first professional bout on Irish soil and extended the Monaghan fighter’s perfect record to 21-0.

McKenna controlled large portions of the 12-round contest at Zuffa Boxing 10, using his jab, movement and accuracy to keep Oliha from establishing sustained pressure. The judges scored the fight 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112 in McKenna’s favour, handing the Italian his first professional defeat.

Oliha started aggressively and enjoyed some success during the early rounds, particularly in the second. McKenna gradually settled into the contest, however, repeatedly finding the target with his jab and uppercut while making effective use of his reach to stay away from Oliha’s heavier attacks.

As the fight progressed, McKenna increasingly dictated the action. The 27-year-old forced Oliha back towards the ropes and connected with combinations to both the head and body, while his footwork and defensive skills repeatedly frustrated the Italian’s attempts to close the distance.

A clash of heads in the 11th round left McKenna bleeding, but it did little to disrupt his composure. He responded with several clean punches before maintaining control into the final round.

Oliha pressed forward in search of a late stoppage, but McKenna continued to use his jab and movement to deny him an opening. When the final bell sounded, the Dublin crowd erupted as McKenna celebrated becoming a world champion.

The victory marked the fulfilment of a dream McKenna said he had carried since childhood. Speaking afterwards, he said he had imagined becoming world champion from the age of six and urged others not to abandon their ambitions.

McKenna also made it clear that he intends to pursue further titles. The new champion welcomed potential challengers and said he wants to collect every belt in boxing, while also leaving open the possibility of moving up to super-middleweight.

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