Aaron McKenna is the Middleweight Champion of the World
By Maitiú Monaghan at the 3 Arena.
In his first professional fight on Irish soil, Newbliss man Aaron McKenna defeated Italian boxer Etinosa Oliha to claim the vacant IBF middleweight title by unanimous decision.
Dublin's 3 Arena was packed full of Monaghan supporters last night, and the excitement started early in the evening, with Aaron's brother, Stevie, fighting on the under-card.
In his signature style, it took 'The Hitman' just 65 seconds to knock out his opponent, Owen O'Neill- a vicious right hook ending the fight before it really got started.
Speaking over chants of 'Farney Army' coming from the stands, Stevie McKenna announced that he would be in his older brother's corner later that evening.
During an entertaining main card, the Irish supporters were vocally supportive of the Irish fighters on the card, especially for Athlone's Joe Ward.
When the time came for the main event, the noise level increased again, with Monaghan flags and jerseys visible throughout the arena.
It didn't take McKenna long to settle into the fight, although the undefeated Italian proved a stubborn opponent.
As the rounds flew by. both men landed significant blows, although it was clear that the Monaghan native was comfortably ahead on points.
The Italian also realised that a knockout would be needed to win the fight, and became more aggressive in the closing rounds.
This only served to spur on McKenna, and the Monaghan fans, who were in full voice throughout Rounds 11 and 12.
There was a carnival atmosphere when the final bell rang- followed immediately by a rousing rendition of Baccara's Yes Sir, I Can Boogie, sang in the Monaghan dialect.
Before too long, McKenna got his hands on the belt, with the judges scoring the fight 118-110, 117-111, 116-112 unanimously for McKenna.
Before the arena filtered out, there were touching scenes of the McKenna family; Aaron, Stevie, and their father and coach, Feargal, celebrating inside the ring.
In his post fight comments, McKenna was asked about the noise in the arena.
"I've been a professional for nine years," he told Sky Sports. " And never got the chance to fight in Ireland.
"Why? Just look at these beautiful fans."