Aaron McKenna Claims IBF Middleweight Title in Dublin
In a thrilling weekend for middleweight boxing, Aaron McKenna emerged as the new IBF middleweight champion after decisively defeating Etinosa Oliha by unanimous decision in Dublin, Ireland, on August 8, 2026. McKenna, who improved his record to 21-0 with 10 knockouts, utilized his four-inch height advantage and physical strength to dominate the fight.
Throughout the contest, McKenna effectively controlled the action, landing powerful uppercuts and body shots. The judges scored the fight 118-110, 117-111, and 116-112 in favor of McKenna, marking his debut at No. 9 in the middleweight rankings. Oliha, who was fighting for the first time in nearly a year, suffered his first career defeat, bringing his record to 22-1 with 10 knockouts.
In the co-main event, Callum Walsh continued his unbeaten streak, defeating Tyler Denny in another unanimous decision. Despite suffering a knockdown in the first round and an accidental clash of heads, Walsh secured victory with scores of 98-91, 98-91, and 96-90. He improved his record to 17-0 with 11 KOs but remains outside the top 10 in the middleweight rankings.
ESPN’s boxing rankings highlight the finest talent across various weight classes, with adjustments made based on recent fight outcomes. Notably, fighters who have not competed in the past 12 months and lack scheduled fights will be removed from the rankings until they return to the ring.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
