NEW YORK (December 4 , 2023) – Fresh off his scintillating knockout of English welterweight champion Danny Ball (13-2-1, 6 KOs), newly crowned World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Champion Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (12-0, 9 KOs) gained invaluable exposure worldwide by fighting on a DAZN pay-per-view headlined by the rematch between Irish superstar Katie Taylor (22-1) and previously undefeated, unified world super lightweight champion Chantelle Cameron (18-1), that was streamed live from 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.

The 24-year-old Donovan lit up the sellout crowd with his fan-friendly style of boxing, displaying superior hand and foot speed, as well as dynamite in his hands as he picked up the pace in the third round, followed by an explosive fourth when he closed the show.

Donovan lived up to his nickname and pre-fight hype, cracking Ball with a powerful left that rocked his world. The game Ball somehow stayed upright, at least temporarily, but Donovan trapped him in a corner and unleashed nearly a 50 punch-barrage, mostly unanswered, decking his opponent with a vicious body shot as he moved out of the corner. Ball’s corner wisely threw in the towel before the judge’s count started.

“I looked in my corner (in the fourth round),” Donovan noted, “and Andy (Lee, his head trainer) said to go get him. I did! There was a lot of pressure to deliver in Ireland because there was a lot of talk about me fighting. The crowd anticipated my fight, and I handled it well. The fight went as good as I could have dreamed. I knew I had the talent but my maturity at 24 is where I’ve improved the most this past year. It went as we trained, and I knocked him out in the fourth round. My footwork was good, I set-up my shots and came out of the fight without a scratch. This was my best fight to date.”

In a post-fight press conference, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn proclaimed Donovan the newest Irish boxing superstar, in addition to indicating that he’s interested in promoting a fight in Paddy’s hometown of Limerick with him headlining.

“Superstars are made on the big stage and Ireland have a new superstar in Paddy Donovan,” Hearn stated. “I truly believe that. He’s flashy, he’s skillful, he’s a good-looking fella…. He’s a champion now moving to championship fights, but everybody loved seeing that fight.”

“We like to see new talent emerge in Ireland,” Donovan said. “I’m set to move into the limelight.”

Eddie Hearn talked about a show in Limerick with me headlining. We haven’t had boxing here in the last 10-15 years and this would possibly be the biggest boxing event ever in Limerick. If that fight doesn’t happen next, we’re also looking to fight in New York City, possibly on St. Patrick’s Day at Madison Square Garden.”

Not only is Limerick-native Lee (35-3-1, 24 KOs), the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Middleweight World Champion, Donovan’s chief second, he also co-manages Paddy with New York-based attorney Keith Sullivan.

Lee added, “That’s (fight vs. Ball) just a taste of what he can do. There’s a lot more to come from Paddy. We can bring Matchroom to Limerick for a world title fight.”

(L-R) – Paddy Donovan & Keith Sullivan

“As sensational and important as the win was,” Sullivan remarked, “it’s behind us now and we are already looking forward to the next match. Paddy will be in New York City this week for sparring and Andy and I will discuss Paddy’s options with him. A fight in Limerick, as Eddie Mentioned, would be magical, so too would one in New York City with its massive base of Irish fans. We’ll have to wait and see who is available and what makes the most sense for Paddy’s career.”

As much as Donovan appreciates the fame-and-glory journey he’s officially embarked on, Paddy’s never forgotten where he comes from, and he’s all for giving back to the next generation of Irish youth.

“I owe thanks to a lot of people who stood by me and kept me off the streets,” Donovan explained. “What I really enjoy the most are the kids. I know what they feel when I meet them because I was the same way growing up and meeting Andy Lee and other Irish boxers. Kids here look up to their role models and I want to inspire the next generation in Ireland.

“There hadn’t been big boxing cards in the last 7-8 years. Eddie started doing big-time boxing again in Ireland.”

Despite his youth, Donovan is also savvy enough to take advantage of opportunities like the platform provided by fighting on a card headlined by Katie Taylor. Donovan dedicated his last fight to Pieta, using his boxing platform to promote the suicide prevention charity that provides mental health services throughout Ireland. Paddy lost two relatives to suicide. The Pietra Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide.

“Being Irish,” Donovan concluded, “I wanted to fight on the highest level, not only for my boxing career, but for Pietra House too. We want to help people with mental health problems, especially those thinking about suicide, and it’s great to get information about Pieta into their heads. If I can get somebody to call that number and change their life, I think my deed is done on this earth.”

INFORMATION:

X (formerly Twitter): @PaddyDonovan23

Instagram: @paddy_realdeal_donovan

Facebook: /PaddyRealDealDonovan

Follow all the action as Chantelle Cameron defends the Undisputed Super Lightweight Title in a rematch against Katie Taylor. The action Begins at 5 PM ET

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Round 1: Combination from Taylor..Jab..Right from Cameron..Taylor goes down but ruled a slip…

ROUND 2 Body shot from Cameron..hard right

ROUND 3 Good combination from Taylor..Right from Cameron..Cameron is cut on the forehead

ROUND 4 Right from Taylor..Left-right combination..Body shot from Cameron..

ROUND 5 Great action

Round 6 Right from Cameron..1-2

ROUND 7 Left From Cameron..Combination from Taylor..3 Punch combination

ROUND 8 Cameron working on the inside…Big right from Taylor

ROUND 9 Hard right from Taylor

ROUND 10 Left from Taylor..

96-94, 98-92 AND 95 FOR TAYLOR

Round 1:

Katie Taylor avenged her first professional defeat to win a majority decision over Chantelle Cameron to win the Undisputed Junior Welterweight Title in front of a raucous crowd at 3 Arena in Dublin, Ireland

It was an action packed fight with Taylor landing the crisper combinations that had the crowd on their feet throughout the “Fight of They Year” Candidate. Cameron was courageous in defeat as she fought through a bad cut on her forehead that started in the second round.

Taylor, 139.6 lbs of Bray, Ireland won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 23-1. Cameron, 139.5 lbs of Northampton, ENG is 18-1.

Cully Edges By Mould Via Split Decision

Gary Cully came back from his first professional defeat by winning a 10-round split decision over Reece Mould in a lightweight bout.

Cully, 134.5 lbs of Naas, IRE won by scores of 97-93, 96-93 and Cully won a scorecard by a 97-93 total.

Cully landed 77 of 305 punches. Mould landed 92 of 261.

Cully is now 17-1. Mould, 134.1 lbs of Dorncaster, ENG is 18-2.

Donovan Stops Ball in Four

Paddy Donovan remained undefeated by stopping Danny Ball in round four of their 10-round welterweight fight.

In round four, Donovan dropped Ball with a hard left hand. Donovan then unloaded on Ball and dropped him again with a hard flurry of punches. The corner of Ball threw in the towel at 2:41.

Donovan, 146.5 lbs of Limerick, ENG is 12-0 with nine knockouts. Ball, 146.7 lbs of Kingswingford, ENG is 13-2-1.

Carty Stops Garber in 8th and Final Round

Popular heavyweight Thomas Carty stopped Dan Garber in the final minute of the eighth and final round.

Carty beat Garber down and in round eight, landed a hard left to the body that took the starch out of Garber and then dropped him after a few follow up punches at 2:19.

Carty, 154.3 lbs of Dublin, IRE is now 8-0 with seven knockouts. Garber, 220.5 lbs of Bradford, ENG is 5-2.

Skye Nicolson retained the WBC Interim Featherweight title with a ninth round stoppage of Lucy Wildheart.

Nicolson Defends Interim Title with 9th round Stoppage of Wildheart

Nicolson won every one by boxing and breaking down Wildheart. Wildheart was bleeding all over her face. the fight was stopped when the corner of Wildheart threw in the towel as Nicolson was landing an unanswered flurry of punches at 1:11.

Georgio Visioli made a spectacular pro debut with a first-round stoppage over Lee Anthony Sibley in a super featherweight bout.

Visioli landed a perfect left hook that put Sibley on the canvas. Sibley got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 1:21.

Visioli, 134.9 lbs of Guidford, ENG is 1-0 with one knockout. Sible, 133.5 lbs of La Oliva, SPA is 3-2.

Eddie Hearn:

“We are so happy to be back in Dublin, last time was good, this Saturday is going to be unbelievable. We are lucky to be part of something that is going to be very special, to everybody involved from the media to our team at Matchroom and of course to the fighters, you guys and girls have got a wonderful opportunity on Saturday night, live around the world on DAZN, to defend titles, to move into World championship positions, to maybe even move into future contracts with Matchroom and DAZN, and it’s all culminating in a main event that is just breathtaking. Chantelle Cameron was superb last time and is defending her undisputed 140lb title against the legend Katie Taylor. Last time, Gary Cully suffered defeat and then so did Katie, and it was almost like ‘that’s it’ for us in Ireland. But a few months on we’re back in a sold-out 3Arena with an even better card stacked with action, so many great fights and great fighters on display.”

Alfie Sharman:

“What a fight we have ahead of us, Chantelle looked indestructible in April and Katie being the formidable competitor that she is, it’s going to make for an amazing event. This night kicks off an incredible schedule to the end of the year, no-one in the world of boxing is doing what we’re doing right now and we’re incredibly proud to be bringing that to boxing fans all over the world.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“I am not complacent whatsoever, that’s why I put the work in. I feel like it’s the best camp I’ve ever had and I know that I’m going to be up against a Katie Taylor seeking revenge, I’ve taken that in my stride and worked hard because I know that this is not going to be a walk in the park. I’m the fittest I’ve ever been.

“I always set a hot pace every time I go in there, I have a high work rate but I can also adapt to any situation. I can get stuck in and have a fight, but I can also box. I feel really comfortable here, I’m embracing the week and enjoying it for once, usually I hate all this but I am taking it in my stride and enjoying it. 

“I’ve had great preparation, I’m the fittest and strongest that I have ever been, I don’t have a torn tricep this time, so I am good to go.”

Katie Taylor:

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity again, I have a second chance and I just can’t wait to fight at this stage. Whether I am seen as the underdog or the favourite, whoever walks first or second, it’s irrelevant, I am just hungry for the rematch, I can’t wait to step in there on Saturday and perform the way I know I can. I don’t really take too much notice of what people are saying to be honest, I am very single-minded and the only people I listen to are my team and my family, the people that I trust. I understand that this is a huge fight, I understand it is must-win for me, I know I am going to perform to the best of my ability on Saturday and it’s going to be a completely different fight to last time and I am just excited to showcase that.

“I feel a lot better this time around. I’m just ready to fight. I hate all the talk, I hate all these press conferences, there’s nothing to say, I am just excited and ready. I am always ready for whatever comes my way, ready to dig deep if I have to, that’s why I put my body through the trenches week in, week out to be ready for these situations. 

“This is what every fighter dreams of, to headline a huge sold-out show like this, it’s going to be another amazing night on Saturday, the atmosphere is going to be electric again. I can’t wait, may the best fighter win.”

Jamie Moore:

“Relaxed, cool calm and collected, that’s a generic thing that we try to keep in terms of how we run things. Chantelle performed last time under a hell of a lot of pressure, it was a fantastic atmosphere and I expect it to be an even better one this time as everyone is going to get behind Katie and try and back her. We expect Katie to perform better, but I expect Chantelle to do the same. We sat down ten weeks ago and watched the fight back for the first time and we agreed halfway through that she could perform way better than she was even at that point in the fight. 

“Where I wanted her to be at the end of camp, she’s surpassed that, she’s better than I ever anticipated she could be, and she seems she’s really coming into her prime now. I expect an even better fight than last time, because I expect Katie to come, but there’s no doubt in my mind that Chantelle comes out on top.

“The unknown is always the scary part. Going into the Lion’s Den and boxing Katie who is a living legend, it’s an unknown factor. Now she’s walked that path, it’s not that she doesn’t have the nerves, but she’s experienced it now and she’s coping with it better. She’s coming across better with the media, she’s never been one to embrace this stuff, she’s always shied away from it and let her fighting do the talking, but she is speaking a lot better now and that comes with experience I suppose.”

Ross Enamait:

“It’s a huge night and i just can’t wait for Saturday to come. I feel like we’re in a much, much better place than we were last time around, we’re healthier and there’s no pressure on us. No-one thinks we have a shot, so we’re here to prove everyone wrong. Losing sucks, nobody wants to be there, it’s been a long time since Katie lost, she’s always hungry but she’s hungrier now, and in a much better place. We’ve had a great camp and there’s not much to do but show up on Saturday and fight. I’m only worried about our side, it’s a rematch, they’ve seen each other before, there’s not going to be much feeling out. They’re going to get straight into it, I’m sure they’re coming after us, so we’ll see on Saturday, but I can tell you we’re ready. It’s about getting in there and winning. Katie doesn’t love being up here, I don’t think anybody does, aside from yourself! But we’re just here to fight, this is part of the game and we understand that. A lot of people are writing us off, but to me it feels like when Bernard Hopkins fought Kelly Pavlik, when at the end of that fight Hopkins stood over the media and took a look at everybody, that’s what I expecting on Saturday.”

Gary Cully:

“I’ve relocated with Joe McNally and Declan O’Rourke in Liverpool, I’ve put in the camp of my life over there. I went through some dark times, I’ve learned a lot about myself, in and out of the ring, and I’m ready to get back in the ring and back to winning ways on Saturday night. I’m a fighter, these things happen, if Reece’s memory is any good, the last time he was in a Matchroom ring, he was on oxygen when Leigh Wood sparked him. He’s been there before and knows what it feels like, I’ll show him Saturday night. He wants to talk about weight? He’s up here looking fat and skinny at the same time. I’m good, I’m sound at the weight and I’m ready to put on a performance and take him to school. 

“Last time I think we were all partying before we got the result. I was talking to Katie’s Mum yesterday about the same thing, everyone was here for a celebration, big-time boxing was back in Ireland and all that. This time, I’ve taken myself away from all of that, I’ve been in Liverpool for the last 12 weeks, cycling to the gym in my hat and scarf in the cold mornings, living in a single room. It’s humbled me a bit, back to where I came from at 15/16 years of age with a chip on my shoulder and hunger, I’ve got something to prove, and that’s what I’ll do, prove to not only myself but all the people what I can do. I will put on a masterclass of boxing, follow my coaches instructions, and if the KO comes, it comes, but it’s a Gary Cully victory all day long.”

Reece Mould:

“We’re very confident in this fight and not because of Gary’s last fight, we’ve been watching him for a while now. We actually got this fight put to us at the start of the year, i know Gary says he’s only taken this fight because we’ve seen the defeat, but i had a fight planned then three weeks out and i wasn’t prepared to give the first defence of my title up just to fight him. We were confident of coming through that fight and were hoping Gary would come through his and we would have got it on then, but it didn’t work out like that. But we’re here today and we’re very confident in what we’re going to do.

“There’s not many top fighters that come through defeats like his and bounce back. Gary has said that he’s fighting himself on Saturday night, but he’s not, he’s fighting me and he’s going to have a lot of demons going into this, anyone that suffered a defeat like he has is going to tell you a lie and that’s one of the reasons we’re so confident. I know what it’s like to be in there when you are struggling with the weight, I know the effects it has and I am sure it’s going to have an effect on Gary. 

“Your team isn’t that confident as there’s a rematch clause in this, you didn’t take the rematch with Felix, so I don’t think you are confident. I don’t think he’ll see the final bell.”

Paddy Donovan:

“I really respect Danny but I believe this is a stepping stone for me in my career. I think that I am on the way to becoming a World champion, I have all of Ireland behind me, I know how good I am and what I can do. A lot of people are saying I haven’t been tested, that’s because I don’t let anyone test me. No fighter that gets in the ring gets close to me. I feel invincible in there and I am ready to put on another show. He’s never fought anyone like me, he’s a good and durable fighter but he’s up against a World class fighter, no doubt about it. No excuses, I’ve had a 12 week camp and some of the best sparring in the World with Adam Azim, I’m in the best shape possible, well-schooled for it with a great game plan and I’m ready to execute it on Saturday night.”

Danny Ball:

“I’ll soak it all up on the night, I enjoy fighting away, I’ve done it a couple of times and the odds are always against me but I come out on top. I’ve had great preparation for this so I’m ready for it. The last time you saw me fight I didn’t have to go through the gears, you saw me box behind my jab and made it easy work, kept chopping away. You’ll see a different side of me this time, I’m ready to bring the ding-dong from the Black Country to Dublin. I’m ready for it, I’m not looking past Paddy, but a big win here and hopefully I can get something big in the new year.”

Thomas Carty:

“I’m really looking forward to it. Dan is a tough test on paper, five wins, one loss, coming in off a first round KO win. If I am on the trajectory that I think I am and everyone else thinks, he is just another stepping stone and I am going to stand on his head to get past him. Anyone that was there last time saw the atmosphere, it was breathtaking. I remember the walk out and it was just a sea of green, people going crazy – Irish fans are nuts by the way, you know that – so I am really looking forward to seeing it again. I think the atmosphere will be better this time, Katie is on the get-back this time, so everyone is eager to get the win. Dan is saying he’s had great sparring and I hope he has as everyone has an excuse when I beat them, they were drunk in the ring or something along those lines, so I hope he did have a good camp so there’s no excuses.”

Dan Garber:

“Thomas has looked fantastic in all his fights and I know what I am up against. He looks a great boxer, he’s done all that has been asked of him. I’m coming off a first round KO of an unbeaten opponent, I’ve had six weeks notice so I am probably in the best shape of my life, sparring has been fantastic, so I am going in full of confidence and there’s no pressure on me, it’s all on him. I don’t fear anyone, that’s why I took the fight and it’s what I have been waiting for. It’s the first time I’ve been in with no pressure on me, no-one expects me to win apart from myself, my trainer and manager, and they are the only people I need to believe I can win. May the best man win, Thomas has got my full respect, I’ve watched all his fights, he’s got a great jab, he looks the part, we’ll see how it goes on Saturday night.”

Skye Nicolson:

“I feel unbelievable, definitely the fittest, strongest and best prepared I’ve been for a fight. I’m definitely not overlooking Lucy, I think she is a great athlete, but we’re going to see the difference in levels on Saturday night. Full focus is on Saturday night, we can look at the Amanda Serrano fight afterwards, I have to get the job done first.”

Lucy Wildheart:

“Thank you so much for this opportunity. To all the Irish people letting us be here and seeing all the girls at the workout yesterday, they love it and it’s going to be an epic fight. I like Skye, but this is business, I’m here to win. It was a great fight, Mikaela Meyer is fantastic, but I gave her a good fight. I am supposed to be a Featherweight, it’s my division, and I am here to take over.”

Zelfa Barrett:

“Costin Ion is no slouch, he comes to win, but I believe in myself and believe I am World class, so my performance will be spectacular. I’m ready for anyone, I was speaking to Frank Smith and Steve Wood on FaceTime, it doesn’t matter where it is, I will fight anyone, anywhere with the right notice. I believe in myself so anyone can get it.”

Emmet Brennan:

“The plan was to always move fast. Jamie is Irish Celtic champion, it made sense to go after him and I think on Saturday you have two lads that are going to go toe-to-toe and the Irish fans are in for a treat. I know we’re on early so to the fans coming, make sure you are there for this fight. I’m confident, eight rounds is nothing to me. Jamie has been in wars but he’s faded towards the end of them. If that happens in this fight, no doubt about it, I will capitalize on it. We sold a lot of tickets, this for me is the fight that’s going to be the big one on the undercard, Limerick vs. Dublin, and a back and forth toe-to-toe fight, it’s huge.”

Jamie Morrissey:

“It’s a great opportunity and I’m grateful to be here, but it’s about capitalizing on it now. It’s my fifth domestic fight in seven, this is going to be the fourth unbeaten record that I will be taking. I’m not here to make up the numbers, I’m here to change my career. I have a healthy respect for Emmet but I look at him as a mere man, no different to any of my past opponents. The bookies have written me off but I I have earned my place here. Maybe people are overlooking me, I have what matters and that is real self-belief that I am going to get this job done, and I have to.”

Liam Gaynor:

“This is my big opportunity, the one I’ve been working towards and I’ve taken these big tests over the last year or so, now is my time to put on a show. If you watch any of my fights, you’re expecting a war.”

John Cooney:

“All-action, that’s what I am going to bring you on Saturday night. I saw you saying the last few weeks that people need to be in exciting fights, and that’s what I am bringing. A win here changes both our lives, but unfortunately for him, it’s only a win for me and then I am moving on to big things in the 135lb division. I want all the big names, the big domestic fights in 2024, and I am coming for all the titles, 100 per cent.”

Giorgio Visioli:

“I’m very excited, it’s been a while now and I am forward to putting on a great performance and showcasing my talent to the world. I won a lot in the UK amateur scene but GB decided not to take me after I won two double weights at Senior level, it was the right time to go as GB took my weight out of the Olympics, I decided to go pro and I think it’s the best time. It’s a great card to be on, it’s exciting times now.”

Gary Cully insists that he isn’t feeling the pressure ahead of his make-or-break clash with Reece Mould on the undercard of Chantelle Cameron’s huge undisputed Super-Lightweight World Title rematch with Katie Taylor at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland this Saturday November 25, shown live worldwide on DAZN. 

The Naas native (16-1, 10 KOs) suffered a stunning upset loss at the hands of Jose Felix last time out in May, with the unheralded Mexican ripping up the script and inflicting Cully’s first defeat in the pros via a devastating third round knockout in front of the Irishman’s home crowd. 

Cully’s ten-round clash with Felix was supposed to be a routine win on what was the rising Lightweight star’s first outing as a professional in Dublin, but ‘Josesito’ had other ideas and forced his opponent to go back to the drawing board and completely change his training set-up. 

“Something wasn’t quite right with me,” admitted Cully. “I didn’t really know it at the time, but my mind wasn’t fully focused. Everything was just planned for the party afterwards, the celebrations and reflecting on what a week and what a show it had been. I took my eye off having a fight in front of me. 

“Probably being back in Dublin and back in Ireland I fell into that trap as well of ‘The Diva Gary Cully’ – Gary is the guy and Gary is the man. I probably fell into that trap a little bit as well and started believing my own hype a little bit.

“I wanted to impress and thought I’d just f***ing walk through this kid. I just wasn’t fully focused, wasn’t fully focused on Jose Felix and I paid the price. This time it isn’t about a celebration or a party like last time was supposed to be.

“I’ve been through some ups and downs in my life, but that loss was definitely the hardest. It felt like the world was ending at one point. I thought it was, but it taught me lots of lessons. I think I’ve learnt a lot from it as well. I’m looking forward to showing that this Saturday.”

Now training under respected coach Joe McNally at the Rotunda ABC in Liverpool alongside Belfast Super-Welterweight contender Caoimhin Agyarko, World Champion hopeful Cully is determined to bounce back after vowing to take care of business when he faces Mould (18-1-0, 6 KOs) for the WBA Continental Europe Title. 

“I’ve got a job ahead of me. We’re going back to Dublin which is my hometown and we’re going straight back there after coming off a loss. I’m not in the winners club right now, and I believe that’s where I’m supposed to be.

“There’s a bit of pressure to get back into that club obviously but I’m not feeling an ounce of pressure, this is personal and this is me versus me this time around. This is about Gary Cully getting back to where I know I’m at and showing everybody what I can do.

“When I come in here (the Rotunda) I’m just another one of the lads. Darren Till is in here training with us and he’s just Darren, he’s just another one of the lads. I’ve got the second chance and I’ve got to make it right. I’ve got to come back and show them that I am what I say I am. It’s important to me for sure.

“Reece Mould, he’s tough and he’s game. He’s been around the block, 19 fights 18 wins. He’s only lost to Leigh Wood so he’s no mug. He knows what he’s doing and he’s going to come to win. I want to put pain on somebody and I want to put on a performance, beat somebody down and show them I’m at the level I say I’m at.”

Cully vs. Mould is part of a huge night of boxing in Dublin, undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron (18-0, 8 KOs) puts her crowns on the line against Irish great Katie Taylor (22-1, 6 KOs) Limerick Welterweight Paddy Donovan (11-0, 8 KOs) meets Danny Ball (13-1-1, 6 KOs) for the WBA Continental Title, Dublin Heavyweight Thomas Carty (6-0, 5 KOs) takes on Dan Garber (5-1, 1 KO) in an eight-round contest, Australia’s Interim WBC Featherweight World Champion Skye Nicolson (8-0) defends her crown against Sweden’s Lucy Wildheart (10-2, 4 KOs), Manchester’s former Super-Featherweight World Title challenger Zelfa Barrett (29-2, 16 KOs) fights Spain’s Costin Ion (10-4-2, 5 KOs) over eight rounds, Belfast’s John Cooney (8-0, 2 KOs) and Dublin’s own Liam Gaynor (10-4-0) meet for the Celtic Featherweight crown, as fellow Dublin fighter Emmet Brennan (1-0) battles Limerick’s Jamie Morrisey (5-0-1, 1 KO) for the Celtic Light-Heavyweight Title, while Guildford Super-Featherweight debutant Giorgio Visioli opens the show against Lee Anthony Sibley (3-1, 1 KO).

NEW YORK (November 13, 2023) – Undefeated Irish welterweight sensation Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (11-0, 8 KOs) will fight for his first title as a professional on November 25th against BBB of C English welterweight champion Danny Ball (13-1-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round bout for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Championship.

Donovan, 24, will be showcased on the undisputed world super lightweight champion Chantelle Cameron (18-0) vs Katie Taylor (21-1) rematch, streaming on DAZN PPV live from 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.

“If I win this fight,” Donovan said, “I will win the WBA Continental title and be ranked No. 15 by the WBA. I’d like to defend that title a few times and get a world title shot by the end of next year or early 2025.

“I know Katie Taylor extremely well; I was her sparring partner when I was 15. She’s one of the nicest people, not just in boxing, I’ve ever met. She’s never forgotten my name. She’s even come to train with me and Andy in Dublin a few times before fights.”

Fighting out of Limerick, Ireland, Donovan is trained in Dublin by former World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Middleweight Champion “Irish” Andy Lee (35-3-1, 24 KOs), whose cousin is unbeaten lineal and reigning World Boxing Council (WBA) World Heavyweight Champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs).

Because of his relationship with Lee, Donovan has benefited from training with Fury and “The Gypsy King” is mighty high on his fellow Irish Traveller, Paddy.

“I think Paddy Donovan is one of the stars of the future,” Fury told the Irish Mirror. “He’s definitely the biggest prospect in Irish boxing at the moment. He’s a very, very talented young fighter and he’s had a lot of amateur experience. “He can punch hard, and he has got the boxing IQ, He’s had great tutelage with my cousin, Andy Lee. I think he’s going all the way, Paddy!”

“It meant so much to me when Tyson said that I’m going to be a world champion,” Donovan added. “They call him “The Gypsy King” and in Ireland, they call me “The Gypsy Prince.”

Donovan, who was born in Ennis in County Clare, is a slick southpaw with dynamite in both hands, who represented Ireland at the 2016 World Youth Championships in St. Petersburg, Russia. As an amateur (65-12), Donovan was a two-time Irish National Champion, as well as the 2017 International Tournament, Haringey Youth gold medalist in London.

In 2019, Donovan turned pro, stopping Arturo Lopez in the opening round of their clash in Belfast, Northern Ireland, which was scheduled for six rounds. Paddy’s last action was this past May, in which he knocked out 17-4-1 Sam O’Maison in round eight.

Already ranked No. 30 by the European Boxing Union, Donovan’s fight versus Ball, a former World Boxing Council (WBC) International Welterweight Champion, will be Paddy’s first scheduled 10-rounder.

“My opponent is a hard hitter who is the English champion,” Donovan added. “He’s won his last three fights in a row. I’ll open boxing, coming forward counter-punching, and then get the knockout.”

New York City-based attorney Keith Sullivan, known for his work in boxing as a lawyer, represented Lee and the two co-manage Donovan.

“I think Paddy has all the tools to be world champion,” Sullivan said. “all he really needs is time, top-level experience and opportunities. It’s great working again with Andy Lee, who has developed into a first-class boxing trainer. His boxing experience is helpful for a young boxer like Paddy.”

Donovan is a proponent of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. He is using this fight platform to promote Pieta, which is a suicide prevention charity providing mental health services throughout Ireland. Paddy has lost two relatives to suicide, and he has dedicated his upcoming fight to mental health awareness. Lee and Sullivan have also felt the pain of suicide by close relations. The Pietra Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide.

INFORMATION:

X (formerly Twitter): @PaddyDonovan23

Instagram: @paddy_realdeal_donovan

Facebook: /PaddyRealDealDonovan

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“November 25 at The 3Arena, live and exclusive on DAZN, the undisputed World Super-Lightweight Championship with the champion Chantelle Cameron against Katie Taylor.

“Last time around, in my opinion, we had one of the greatest atmosphere’s we’ve witnessed in many year of promoting  shows around the world, it was incredible. Katie suffered her first professional defeat at the hands of an outstanding Chantelle. This time, whether people like to talk about it or not, legacy is on the line, belts are on the line, careers may be on the line. It’s a must-win fight for both as we look forward to an outstanding schedule live on DAZN.”

Chantelle Cameron, defending her undisputed Super-Lightweight World Titles:

“I can’t be complacent, I’m never complacent. Katie is a great fighter and I know that all she wants is revenge, I gave her a first defeat, so for me I have to be better. Jamie and I have been watching it over and over, and I am sick of watching it because I did make so many mistakes, some bits of it I cringe at so I know that I have more gears to go through. I have to come back to Dublin, do the business again and then carry on with my career.

“It was the first fight where I’ve thought ‘wow, I’ve just beaten Katie Taylor’, whereas I’ve had other wins that haven’t really fazed me. I’ve always wanted the fight with Katie, and thought you beat Katie and you have kind of completed boxing because she’s such a good fighter. That’s been and done now, I just have to do it again, it’s just about improving and being better, so that’s changed my mindset.

“I expect a better Katie Taylor, she needs to win against me so she can put it to bed. So I am making sure that I am lot better, I had more gears and the first fight was good but the second fight has got to be even better; I’ve got to be spiteful, go back to the old ways where I am a bit more aggressive. I’ve never boxed on as big a stage before, it was a great night with a great atmosphere, but I’ve experienced that now so I can focus on the main thing and that’s fight.

“I never go looking for the stoppage but I know what I have to do and I need to be more aggressive. I showed too much respect in the first fight, it was a weird night because I didn’t feel I had that spite in me, I think I am better when I have a bit of beef between my teeth and that spite, and I have that now because I know I have a massive job on my hands, so I will definitely come out more aggressive and try and win in a better fashion. 

“Jamie and Nigel always go mad if I say I can’t be hurt because I lose my defence, I have to make sure that I don’t take silly shots, but I can’t be hurt and I can walk Katie down, I have got that confidence,  I’ve got to make sure that I move my head more but at the same time, I’m not worried that I am going to get stopped.”

Jamie Moore, trainer of Chantelle Cameron:

“It was an unbelievable night for us as a team, and the atmosphere was phenomenal. There was one scorecard that was a draw which I thought was too close but other than that, I couldn’t complain, and we’re coming back to do it all again.

“I think from the experience of being here last time and going into the first fight, even though we were confident, you are going in against Katie Taylor in Dublin, so you don’t know what to expect. But we do now, and watching the fight back, we have sat together and analysed it, and we know she can perform better than she did. I am sure Katie will be better too, it’s probably at the stage now when her career is on the line which is going to give her that extra motivation in training and bring out the best in her. I think this will be a better fight than the first fight and we will have to up our game to make sure we are better, which we will be.

“With the experience from the first fight and the confidence you get from putting in a performance like that and knowing that Chantelle has got more gears in her, I do expect a better performance this time and she expects it of herself, so I think it could do Chantelle a favour coming back. We would have liked a homecoming in Northampton or even a neutral territory, but it’s stoked the flame by coming back to Dublin and given her that extra determination that she needs.”

Katie Taylor, challenging for the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Titles:

“Every single fight is a must-win and I think the attitude of every fighter is that the next fight is the most important one, regardless of what is on the line, but I am very aware that this fight is a must-win fight. I’m very grateful to have the chance for a rematch, not every fighter gets this opportunity, so I am grateful I get the chance to rectify things and I have been here before not as a pro, but as an amateur when I have suffered defeat, and I know how to make the necessary adjustments, to come back strong. As a Christian, resurrection is built into my mindset and it’s in my DNA, so I am just excited to have this rematch and I can’t wait to step back in there.

“It doesn’t matter to me whether I am seen as the underdog or the favorite, whether my name is on the left or right hand side. My mindset is always the same, we always train to win and I will have to push myself to the brink to do that. I have no problem being in the trenches, the last fight was a fantastic fight, it was very, very close, we have the chance to do it again and I am very, very confident that if I perform at my best I will win this fight. Regardless of who is on the other side of the ring, I think I win when I am at my very best.

“I am expecting the best of Chantelle, an improved Chantelle, and I am obviously expecting to improve my performance as well. I am going to adjust and make improvements but I believe I am going to win this fight and I don’t think that Chantelle can hurt me either. We shared ten rounds together, it was a great fight, and we’re both super-confident that we’ll win this time. 

“Everyone could see that I wasn’t at my very best, but who cares? She won the fight, there’s no point in talking about the fight, I am just excited to be back in camp, I’ve got my head down and I am excited to be able to rectify things, a second chance and to be able fight at home again in Ireland is amazing. Even though it didn’t go my way last time, it was an amazing night packed with entertaining fights, and I think every time we bring big time boxing back to this nation, it just embeds boxing back into our culture again where it belongs. Boxing belongs at the forefront of Irish sport, it’s our most successful sport, so to have another chance for a massive fight here is so special and to have another history-making fight where I can become a two-time two-weight undisputed champion means it’s the biggest fight of my career so far.”

Ross Enamait, trainer of Katie Taylor:

“It’s definitely must-win and it’s obviously the biggest fight of her career at this stage, it doesn’t get any bigger than this, and Katie knows that and I am more confident this time around and looking forward to it.

“I know Katie can perform a lot better, she wasn’t at her best but when she’s 100 per cent healthy and strong which she is going to be, I’m very confident that she can beat anybody in the world.

“I think that you definitely get a better fight from the both this time around.”

6 x 2 mins International Flyweight contest
MAISEY ROSE COURTNEY 112.1 lbs v KATE RADOMSKA 109.7 lbs
(Eltham, England)                                  (Waterford, Ireland)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
PADDY DONOVAN 148.1 lbs v SAM O’MAISON 149.3 lbs
(Limerick, Ireland)                    (Sheffield, England)

followed by

8 x 3 mins vacant BUI Celtic Heavyweight Title
THOMAS CARTY 258.6 lbsv JAY MCFARLANE 283.7 lbs
(Dublin, Ireland)                      (Glasgow, Scotland)

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
CAOIMHIN AGYARKO 159.8 lbs v GRANT DENNIS 159.3 lbs
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)           (Chatham, England)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBO Super-Welterweight World Title
DENNIS HOGAN153.3 lbsv JAMES METCALF 153.1 lbs
(Kildare, Ireland)                    (Liverpool, England)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBA Super-Welterweight World Title
TERRI HARPER150.8 lbsv CECILIA BRAEKHUS 153.3 lbs
(Denaby Main, England)      (Bergen, Norway)

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
GARY CULLY 137.25 lbsv JOSE FELIX 137.2 lbs
(Naas, Ireland)                     (Los Mochis, Mexico)  

followed by

10 x 2 mins undisputed Super-Lightweight World Titles
KATIE TAYLOR 139.7 lbsv CHANTELLE CAMERON 139.7 lbs
(Bray, Ireland)                     (Northampton, England)  

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thank you Chris and Darren, and thank you everyone for your patience. A huge media turnout here as we approach in my opinion one of the biggest moments in the history of Irish boxing. One of the biggest moments in the history of Irish sport. On Saturday night at the 3Arena Katie Taylor challenges Chantelle Cameron for the undisputed Super-Lightweight Championship of the World. Katie Taylor, former Olympic Champion, former five-time World Amateur Champion, six time European Champion, World Champion, Undisputed Champion, two division World Champion will fight in Dublin for the first time as she looks to make history and become a two-division Undisputed World Champion. Chantelle Cameron the reigning 140lbs undisputed will be looking for one of the greatest victories from an English British fighter in the history of our sport as well as she looks to create her own legacy as a great among women’s and men’s boxing worldwide. This is a tremendous fight and I think we should pay homage to both fighters for accepting this challenge. It’s so refreshing to see World Champions, undisputed champions willing to fight the very best. We don’t see it enough in boxing. When was the last time you would get a reigning undisputed Lightweight World Champion that was scheduled to fight a reigning undisputed Featherweight World Champion, with that fighter pulling out and within 24 hours the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion was in the fight? This is exactly what boxing needs and this fight will be epic on Saturday night in front of a sold-out 3Arena – the biggest gate in the history of the 3Arena, live and exclusive on DAZN around the world. This is a huge moment for DAZN coming off the back of some incredible events. Ryan Garcia against Gervonta Davies, Canelo Alvarez against John Ryder and the return of Anthony Joshua. Of course this weekend, KSI last weekend, going into Leigh Wood against Mauricio Lara next weekend.”

Katie Taylor:

“This is absolutely incredible, we’re only two days away from making my homecoming fight. I think that one of the things that I wanted to achieve when I first turned pro six years ago was to fight here at home. This is a nation who love their sport, who love their boxing, and for a very very small nation we’re very good at it as well. It’s amazing to be bringing big time boxing back to this nation again where it belongs. This isn’t any normal fight, this is undisputed champions versus undisputed champion. This is a very special fight, one of the biggest fights in boxing I believe. I think we’re definitely turning a new leaf for Irish boxing. Hopefully this is the first night of many here at home in Ireland. Even just looking at the public workout the other day, just looking at so many young fighters there, young girls that were watching the public workout. They’re looking up to myself and Chantelle and all of these other fighters, it’s absolutely fantastic. It’s great to be in a position where you’re influencing the next generation of fighters. They’re going to grow up with big dreams and big ambitions as well which is absolutely amazing. That’s what legacy is all about isn’t it, making the way for the next generation of fighters. Those generation of fighters are going to do even more than we’ve ever done. That’s what real legacy is all about. When I was growing up as a 9 or 10 year old having these big dreams, I didn’t have the Olympics at the time, we had so many obstacles and so many boundaries in the way. Here we are making the path so much easier for the next generation of fighters. It’s amazing. Just a few hours ago I met up with Deirdre Gogarty who was my hero growing up. She was the only female fighter I knew of at the time. Just the influence that she had on my career is amazing, I could be that for some young girl coming up in the sport as well. I saw the fight slipping away for me, the May 20^th date was slipping away. I don’t use social media much but when I do use it I guess I can make a big impact. I knew that Chantelle wanted this fight as well. It was a very easy fight to make. The minute the Tweet went out a few days later the fight was actually made. Two undisputed champions facing off against each other is absolutely huge for the sport and it has all of the makings of another epic fight. I never pick the easiest challenges – I want the biggest tests and the biggest challenges. I have a chance to become a two-weight undisputed champion on Saturday evening in front of my home crowd. This is so so special.”

Ross Enamait, trainer of Taylor:

“Chantelle is obviously a tremendous fighter, undefeated versus undefeated. But Katie is as motivated as ever. She’s always wanted this fight. I know that there are people that thought she didn’t, but she’s wanted it all along. She’s firing on all cylinders and she’s ready to go. It’s great to be here, it’s special and I think it’s something that maybe we’ll look at afterwards, but up until we get the win it is just business as usual. It doesn’t really matter where we are. It’s great to be here, but I’ve been saying all along, I don’t care if we fight in a dessert with nobody there, we’re coming to get the W. The noise will be epic but she’s been there before, going back to the 2012 Olympics, we fought Serrano at Madison Square Garden, we couldn’t hear the bell ring in several of the rounds, so she’s been there before but when you’re in there fighting you don’t hear the noise, you tune it all out and you just worry about what’s in front of you. I’m sure she (Cameron is going to be aggressive. She’s big and she’s strong, and she’s busy, but Katie has been sparring 15 rounds with fresh opponents coming in every few rounds so if the plan is to wear her out, I think they’re going to need to think again. She’s seen everything, and she’s proven it time and time again. Like I said, she’s firing on all cylinders. I’m sure you’ll see the best Chantelle Cameron but you’re also going to see the best Katie Taylor.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“It’s unbelievable to be here. It feels like it was yesterday I was in Abu Dhabi thinking, ‘wow I’m undisputed World Champion, it’s not going to get bigger than this’ – I remember saying to Jamie the next day what’s next, what can I achieve now? I became undisputed – that was my dream. Fighting Katie Taylor now is my bigger goal – that’s what I always wanted. I never thought it would happen. For me this fight is bigger than becoming undisputed World Champion. Anyone in this division or round about this division has always wanted to fight Katie Taylor because she’s the pound for pound best and if you’re in boxing you want to challenge the best as well, especially if you’re a champion. You’ve got to set yourself them sort of goals and try achieve your own greatness. I’ve always wanted this fight and I didn’t think it would happen. I’m here now. I’ve got so much respect for Katie Taylor as well. When I saw that Amanda Serrano pulled out I thought Katie deserved a homecoming. What she’s done for women’s boxing, I wouldn’t be sat where I am if it wasn’t for Katie Taylor and Claressa Shields. The homecoming, I thought yeah let’s just jump in and take Amanda’s spot because I think Katie deserved this homecoming in Dublin. It was a no brainer for me. It will definitely be hostile but it’s going to be tunnel vision and I’ll be focused on the job at hand. I’ll let everything else go above my head, I’ve got one job to do and that is to win.”

Jamie Moore, trainer of Cameron:

“It certainly is. I don’t think you need me to try and sell it to you Eddie. It’s a phenomenal fight, two fighters probably at the peak of their game, willing and ready to fight each other basically at the drop of a hat. There wasn’t that much negotiations that took place in those few days from the point where Katie put that message out on Instagram. Chantelle accepted it straight away and that is how it should be. I think a lot of other fighters across the world can could take notes from the way these two have dealt with the situation. Talking about two undefeated undisputed Word Champions fighting each other – Chantelle has boxed a reigning undisputed World Champion two fights on the trot now – one above and one below. I don’t think that has ever been done as well. The calibres of fighters they are willing to fight each other with such short negotiations is something to take your hat off to. I’ve seen a difference in Chantelle this camp. She was two or three weeks into a camp to box on April 1^st anyway when this came about so she was already in training mode. All of a sudden when this fight came around we saw her go up a gear, or maybe even two. People say all the time this is the best training camp they’ve had. This truly is the best I’ve ever seen Chantelle and if she’s ever going to beat Katie Taylor and give herself the best opportunity, she’s put herself in that situation. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that if I tried to send Chantelle out to outbox Katie Taylor it would be crazy tactics. Who in their right mind would try and go and outbox someone of Katie’s calibre. You have to be a bit smarter than that and you have to use your best attributes. Chantelle has got some phenomenal attributes. It’s easy saying it, the hardest part is actually getting her into the positions to take advantage of her strengths against Katie. That’s going to be the battle early on. I have no doubt in my mind that Chantelle comes out victorious on Saturday. This has the potential to be one of the greatest female fights ever, in fact one of the best fights ever.”

Alfie Sharman, Vice President Marketing – DAZN:

“Thanks Eddie and thanks to everyone for coming out today and joining us in this beautiful location in the heart of Dublin. I just want to say from myself and on behalf of everyone at DAZN how proud we are to be involved in such a historic event. What a fight we have on Saturday as Eddie said. Two undisputed World Champions going head-to-head in Dublin, Katie going up in weight against Chantelle – a formidable opponent. Lots are saying this is Katie’s toughest test to date and I think that’s fair and we’re in for a cracker on Saturday. We’ve had an amazing few weeks at DAZN. ‘Tank’ Davies versus Ryan Garcia – the same night that Joe Cordina became a two-time World Champion. The we went to Mexico with Canelo Alvarez and John Ryder. Here we are now with Taylor vs. Cameron, Wood vs. Lara 2 next week and then we go into another longer period of fights with Matchroom debutant and DAZN debutant World Champion Sunny Edwards, as well as Regis Prograis and going into Claressa Shields and Edgar Berlanga all in June alone, further reconfirming DAZN purely does have the best schedule in boxing. On that note I just want to thank Matchroom, Eddie, Frank and all of the team for their continued support and putting on these fights. It takes a lot of work and we are very grateful for them to allow us to continue to provide the most value to our customers as part of their subscription.”

Dennis Hogan will defend his IBO Super-Welterweight World Title against James Metcalf on the undercard of Katie Taylor’s huge homecoming undisputed clash with Chantelle Cameron at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday May 20, live worldwide on DAZN.
 
The Irishman, who is based in Newstead, Australia, returns home to fight in Ireland for the first time in his professional career and heads into his maiden defence of the IBO 154lbs Title on a three-fight winning streak, most recently outpointing Sam Eggington over 12 rounds at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre last October.
 
‘Hurricane’ (31-4-1, 7 KOs), who was born in Kildare, Ireland, controversially lost out on points to Mexico’s Jaime Munguia in a challenge for the WBO Super-Welterweight World Title in April 2019. He jumped up to Middleweight to take on WBC World Champion Jermall Charlo in his next fight but was stopped in seven rounds by the undefeated Texas fighter.
 
Liverpool’s Metcalf (24-2, 15 KOs) halted Brooklyn’s Carl Pennington in six rounds at the First Direct Arena in Leeds last time out in December in what was the first defence of his WBA Continental Super-Welterweight Title. That win followed on from his impressive career-best showing against Kerman Lejarraga at the Bilbao Arena in Spain last summer.
 
The former Commonwealth and WBC International Super-Welterweight Champion, son of Liverpool fight legend Shea ‘Shamrock Express’ Neary, rejuvenated his career by outpointing hometown hero Lejarraga, a two-weight European Champion, in an excellent display of patience and boxing IQ.
 
Metcalf’s only defeats in the professional ranks have come at the hands of Bermondsey’s Ted Cheeseman in a jaw dropping battle for the vacant British Title in Gibraltar in March 2021 and Northampton’s Kieron Conway at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in October 2021.
 
“Firstly, thank you to Eddie Hearn and everyone at Matchroom for having me on this iconic card on May 20,” said Hogan. “I’m excited to be returning to Ireland to defend my World Title against JJ Metcalf. This is a truly special moment for me, not only to be on the card with Katie Taylor who is an Irish superstar, but it will be the first time I will be fighting as a professional in Ireland. See you soon Dublin!
 
“I’ve always wanted to box in Ireland and never quite got the chance, so to be boxing on one of the biggest boxing events in Irish history for a World Title is a dream come true,” said Metcalf.
 
“Dennis Hogan is a really good fighter and a genuine world top 10 in my opinion – you only have to look at some of his previous opponents to see that. I believe he was robbed for the WBO World Title against Munguia.
 
“I’m expecting the fight to be a tough fight, cagey at times, but it will catch fire and hopefully the fans get to see a great fight. A win for my career here will mean everything to me. Everything I’ve done since my first amateur fight at the age of 11 would have all been worth it, it also lines me up for some massive fights.”
 
“Dennis Hogan against JJ Metcalf for the IBO Super-Welterweight World Title is another fantastic war for our monster May 20 event in Dublin,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “We’ve seen Dennis in with the likes of Jaime Munguia, Jermall Charlo and Tim Tszyu and he comes to fight every time. He returns home to fight in Ireland for the first time in his career in what will be a truly special night.
 
“JJ deserves this huge opportunity after bouncing back from his two defeats in brilliant fashion. He’s looked a real force since he teamed up with Joe McNally and they want all the big fights out there. Fighters that have continually stepped up and taken the challenges put in front of them deserve these big opportunities and I can’t wait to see these two go at it on May 20, live around the world on DAZN.”
 
An announcement on tickets will be made soon.

Katie Taylor has the chance to become a two-weight undisputed World Champion when she takes on undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron in a historic homecoming fight at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday May 20, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

Irish legend Taylor (22-0, 6 KOs) fights in Ireland for the first time in her professional career as she bids to create even more history and further cement herself as the greatest female fighter on the planet when she meets England’s Cameron.

Taylor edged out Amanda Serrano in an epic fight for the ages on an iconic night at a sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York last April. The global superstar retained her Undisputed Lightweight World Title belts after a Fight of the Year contender with multi-division World Champion Serrano.

It was the first women’s boxing bout to headline the famous MSG in its 140-year history, attracting an unprecedented audience of 1.5 million tuning in globally on DAZN. The rivals were set to rematch in Dublin on May 20 until Serrano withdrew due to injury last month. 

Northampton’s Cameron (17-0, 8 KOs) achieved a lifetime dream by outpointing the USA’s Jessica McCaskill to be crowned undisputed at 140lbs at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates last November.

Cameron captured the famous green and gold WBC 140lbs World Title by widely outpointing Brazil’s Adriana dos Santos Arauja behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes back in October 2020.

‘Il Capo’ looked sensational as she stopped Puerto Rico’s Melissa Hernandez in five rounds during the first defence of her crown the following year in her US debut at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.

The 31-year-old added the IBF and inaugural Ring Magazine World Titles to her collection by decisioning Indiana’s Mary McGee in an all-action main event at The O2 in London in October 2021 before defending her titles with another unanimous decision points win over Victoria Noelia Bustos in May last year. 

“Once Serrano pulled out this was the natural fight to make,” said Taylor. “It’s two undefeated, reigning Undisputed World Champions going up against each other and I believe that’s the first time that’s ever happened in the modern era of the sport.

“People have been talking about this fight for a long time now so I’m delighted it’s happening and I’m looking forward to becoming a two-weight Undisputed Champion in Dublin on May 20.”

“It feels surreal that the fight is actually happening,” said Cameron. “It feels like my whole professional career has been based around this fight and I never imagined it would actually happen for one reason or another.

“I’m no stranger to boxing away from home now and to be going into Katie’s backyard for her homecoming is massive. I’m glad to be a part of history again like I was in Abu Dhabi. I know what I will be up against and that I am the underdog but I relish that. The fight will be electric. We both are experienced, we are both game and we are both are coming to win

“To successfully defend my belts against Taylor will be the icing on the cake for me. To become undisputed and then defend them against the pound-for-pound best in women’s boxing will really mark my place in women’s boxing and create my own legacy.”

“I can’t wait to be a part of the historic moment when Katie Taylor makes her homecoming in Ireland to attempt to make history and become a two-weight undisputed Champion,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “For the first time in her career Katie Taylor called an opponent out because that’s how important this moment is for her. She called out in my opinion the most dangerous test in boxing for her at this time – the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron. This fight has been talked about for many years and we always said that when the timing was right Katie would have no problem accepting the challenge. 

“For Chantelle, she has done everything that has been asked of her – became World Champion, unified the division and became undisputed at the end of last year. She is a formidable fighter who has always believed she can beat Katie Taylor. On May 20 you will see one of the greatest nights in Irish sporting history as the icon of Irish boxing will be part of an event that will have the eyes of the world watching. We’re building an incredible undercard to accompany a wonderful main event which I think will surpass even the heights of Taylor vs. Serrano. Get ready Ireland, we’re coming! We look forward to an incredible night. Watch it live around the world on DAZN.”

“First of all we wish Amanda all the best in her recovery from injury,” said Joe Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. “Secondly, our thanks to Eddie and the team for pulling this thrilling matchup out the bag to mark Katie’ historic return to Ireland. Chantelle Cameron is a fantastic fighter and will be a tough test for Katie. I for one, cant wait! Watch this brilliant fight live and exclusive on DAZN”

An announcement on tickets will be made soon. 

Chantelle Cameron won the undisputed Super Lightweight Title with a 10 round unanimous decision over Jessica McCaskill.

Cameron of Northampton, ENG won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice and is now 17-0. McCaskill of Chicago is 12-3.

Shavkhatdzhon Rakhimov won the vacant IBF Super Featherweight title with a ninth round stoppage over Zelfa Barrett.

In round three, Barrett landed a big right hand that drove Rakhimov into the ropes for a knockdown.

In round nine, Rakhimov started walking down and landing hard punches on Barrett until he put Barrett on the deck. Barrett clearly had a issue with his leg, and Rakhimov just started unloading on his prey. The onslaught continued until another flurry sent Barrett to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at

Rakhimov of Boktar, TAJ is 17-0-1 with 14 knockouts. Barrett of Manchester, ENG is 26-2.

Galal Yafai eked out a 10-round split decision over Gohan Rodriguez Garcia in a flyweight bout.

Yafai of Birmingham, ENG won by scores of 96-94, 96-95 and Garcia won a card 96-95.

Yafai is 3-0. Garcia of Gomez Palacio, MEX is 12-2-1.

John Lawrence Ordonio won a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Majid Al Naqbi in a super lightweight fight.

Ordonio of San Fernando City, PHL won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is now 8-4-1. Al Naqbi of Dubai, UAE is 7-1.

Former world champion Khalid Yafai survived an early knockdown to win a thin 10-round unanimous decision over Jerald Paclar in a bantamweight bout.

In round one, Paclar dropped Yafai with a short right to the jaw.

Yafai of Birmingham, ENG won by scores of 96-93 twice and 95-94 and is now 27-1. Paclar of Cebu City, PHL is 16-6-3.

Sultan Al Nuaimi remained undefeated by stopping Sohaib Haque in round seven of a scheduled eight-round bantamweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 2:26 for Al Nuaimi of Dubai who is now 9-0 with six knockouts. Haque of Calcutta, IND is 4-3.

Aqib Fiaz remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Diego Valtierra in a lightweight contest.

Fiaz of Oldham, ENG won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 10-0. Valtierra of Algortal, SPA is 6-6-2.

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Denis Bartos in a six-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Campbell put Bartos down with a double right hand to the body. Hatton ended things seconds later by landing a left to the body that put Bartos down for the 10-count at 1:44.

Hatton of Hyde, ENG is 9-0 with three knockouts. Bartos of Rakovnik, CZE is 9-6.

Fahad Al Bloushi won a six-round unanimous decision over Irakli Shariashvili in a lightweight fight.

Al Bloushi of Dubai, UAE won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 11-1. Shariashvili of Rustavi, GEO is 7-13-1.

Chantelle Cameron and Jessica McCaskill will clash for the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Title on the undercard of Dmitry Bivol vs. Gilberto Zurdo Ramirez at the at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday November 5, live to subscribers worldwide on DAZN (excluding South Korea and MENA).

Northampton’s Cameron (16-0, 8 KOs) captured the famous green and gold WBC 140lbs World Title by widely outpointing Brazil’s Adriana dos Santos Arauja behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes back in October 2020.

‘Il Capo’ looked sensational as she stopped Puerto Rico’s Melissa Hernandez in five rounds during the first defence of her crown the following year in her US debut at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.

The 31-year-old added the IBF and inaugural Ring Magazine World Titles to her collection by decisioning Indiana’s Mary McGee in an all-action main event at The O2 in London in October 2021 before defending her titles with another unanimous decision points win over Victoria Noelia Bustos in May this year.

Undisputed Welterweight World Champion McCaskill (12-2, 5 KOs) drops down in weight to enhance her pound-for-pound credentials after dethroning long-reigning champion Cecilia Braekhus in Downtown Tulsa Streets back in August 2020.

A former WBC and WBA World Champion at Super-Lightweight, ‘CasKILLA’ returns to 140lbs for the first time since October 2019 following three successful defences of her IBF, IBO, WBA, WBC and WBO Welterweight World Titles.

“This fight means everything to me, for me it’s all or nothing,” said Cameron. “It’s a career-defining moment for me – this is what every boxer sets out to achieve when they turn professional. As soon as I became a World Champion, I said that the main goal was to become undisputed. To become undisputed would be my dream come true. It’s what I want to achieve in boxing.

“Jessica is a very dangerous fighter and obviously undisputed at 147lbs. She’s been there and she’s done it. She’s got that crown at 147lbs so it’s definitely going to be my toughest fight to date. I’m expecting her to come out all guns blazing. She’s going to stick in on my chest, but I’ve got a game plan A, game plan B and game plan C.

“I’ll make sure that I box how I want to box and not get caught up in a slugfest. As long as I stay switched on and do what I know I can do then this won’t be a messy fight. It’s going to be a good hard fight, but I know I’m a better all-round fighter.”

“I want to take on the biggest and best fights,” said McCaskill. “I want to dominate in multiple weight classes. It’s too easy to stay in one weight class and play it safe. Now I want to prove myself as the best Super-Lightweight on the planet.”

“This is a career-defining moment for Britain’s Chantelle Cameron – a chance to write her name into the history books and become the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Chantelle hasn’t put a foot wrong so far in her career but she knows she faces her toughest test to date against Chicago’s brilliant undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill who returns to 140lbs for another shot at greatness. What a card we’re building for November 5 – watch it live around the world on DAZN.”

“Jessica McCaskill has proven she belongs in the Hall of Fame,” said Rick Ramos. “This victory will solidify that. I’m excited for this fight.”

An announcement on tickets will follow in due course. Sign up HERE for Bivol vs. Ramirez bulletins and ticket updates.

Joshua Buatsi remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Craig Richards at The O2 Arena in London.

Buatsi, 174.75 lbs of Croydon, ENG won by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice and is now 16-0. Richards, 174.25 lbs of Crystal Palace, ENG is 17-3-1.

Cameron Decisions Bustos; Retains Unified 140 lb. Titles

Chantelle Cameron defended the WBC/IBG Super Lightweight titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Victoria Bustos.

Cameron, 140 lbs of Northamptonm ENG won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 16-0. Bustos, 137.3 lbs of Rosario, ARG is now 23-.

Babic Decisions Balski

Alen Babic went the distance for the first time and won a 10-round unanimous decision over Adam Balski in a bridgerweight fight.

In round one, Balski dropped Babic with a left hook to the top of the head.

Balski was deducted a point for clocking and hurting Babic after hitting after the ninth round bell.

Babic, 208.4 lbs of Zagreb, CRO won by scores of 97-91 twice and 95-93 and is now 11-0. Balski, 210.2 lbs of Warsaw, POL is 16-2.

Scotney Decisions Roman

Ellie Scotney won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Cecilla Roman in a super bantamweight bout.

Scotney, 121.7 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 5-0. Roman, 121.7 lbs of San Juan, ARG is 16-7-1.

Davies Jr. Decisions Javier Molina

Robbie Davies Jr. won a 10-round split-decision over former United States Olympian Javier Molina in a super lightweight fight.

Davies Jr., 139.75 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by scores of 96-94 twice while Molina took a card 97-94.

Davies Jr. is 23-3. Molina, 139.75 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 22-5.

Cheavon Clarke remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Paweil Martyniuk in a scheduled six-round cruiserweight bout.

In round three, Clarke dropped Martyniuk with a body shot. Seconds later, it was another body shot that put Martyniyuk down and the fight was stopped at 1:10.

Clarke, 199 lbs of Gravesend, ENG is 2-0 with two knockouts.

Cyrus Pattinson remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Dimitri Trenel in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Pattinson dropped Trenel with a left to the body. Seconds later, a flurry of shots that were mostly to the body had the corner throw in the towel at 2:21

Pattinson, 150 lbs of Alnwick, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Trenel, 149.9 lbs of Dainville, FRA is 8-1.

John Hedges stopped Robert Baltrau in round three of a six-round light heavyweight contest.

In round three, Hedges landed a perfect left that sent Baltaru to the canvas. Baltaru got to his feet but the fight was stopped at 2:24.

Hedges, 182.7 lbs of Talkaley, ENG is now 6-0 with two knockouts. Baltaru, 181.2 lbs of Braga, PR is 2-1-1.

Shiloh DeFreitas remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Iliyan Markov in a super lightweight contest.

In round three, Markov began to bleed from his mouth. In round six, DeFreitas with a right to the body.

DeFreitas, 146.75 lbs of London won by a score of 60-54 and is now 4-0. Markov, 146 lbs of Sofia, Bulgaria is 6-20-2.

Chantelle Cameron is on a scouting mission this week as the WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine World Super-Lightweight champion hits the east coast to watch Kali Reis and Jessica Camara on Friday November 19 at the SNHU Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire live worldwide on DAZN – in a clash for the right to fight Cameron for the undisputed title in 2022.
TICKETS START AT $30 (PLUS FEES) AND ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER.COM
Cameron (15-0 8 KOs) touched down in Mexico City yesterday to attend the WBC Convention and rub shoulders with some of her fellow holders of the famous green and gold belt, and on Wednesday she’ll arrive in New Hampshire to take an up close and personal look at the second installment of the road to undisputed as Reis (18-7-1 5 KOs) takes on Camara (8-2) for the WBA and vacant WBO straps.

Cameron booked her spot in the showcase fight for next year with victory in London over Mary McGhee in an all-action battle at The O2 a fortnight ago, just one of many breathless and exciting women’s World title bouts that have thrilled fans in recent weeks in the UK and America.

The 30 year old expects Reis and Camara to pick up the baton and leave it all in the ring on Friday night, but believe that it will be the American Reis that she’ll go toe-to-toe with for all the marbles next year.

“I think Kali will win on Friday night,” said Cameron. “Jessica is great opposition, a great fighter and tough as they come but I think Kali has the edge – she’ll land cleaner shots, move better and is a technically superior and will win it on points, but I’m excited because it will be a good fight.

“There’s been so many great women’s fights recently, the world title fights are always explosive over the two minute rounds, and I think this will be another one of them.

“I’ve been back in training already last week and getting ready to see who wins, and then I’ll up the levels again as I will know who I am preparing for.

“It was a great fight with Mary, I’ve watched it back couple of times, we put on a good show. It showed that I am improving with every fight, and it was a perfect fight to show those improvements and that I listen and take the instructions well from Jamie Moore.

“I’m getting better and better, and it’s coming in bigger and bigger fights, I don’t want to go stale or get complacent so it’s not just about winning fights but also about performance, that’s important to me.

“It’s so important for me to come out here. I’ll be in New Hampshire on Wednesday, and it’ll be good to see Kali and Camara not just on fight night but on the scales too and just around the hotel. I need to be 100 per cent prepared for the winner and you cannot beat being there in person, watching it on TV is a lot different. You get to see how they handle their business for fight week at the press conference and weigh-in as well as on the night, on my week I was so relaxed and no matter what Mary was doing or saying, I kept my cool and took care of myself, you can’t get under my skin as I am too focused on my job.

“I’m really looking forward to the whole week, I’ve never been to Mexico before, so I am looking forward to meeting the other WBC champions and spending time there too.”

Reis and Camara clash on a massive night of quadruple World title action, topped by Demetrius Andrade (30-0 18 KOs) defending his WBO World Middleweight title against Jason Quigley (19-1 14 KOs). 

Murodjon Akhmadaliev (9-0 7 KOs) defending his WBA and IBF World Super-Bantamweight titles against José Velásquez (26-9-2 19 KOs) and it’s Mexico vs. Puerto Rico in the long-awaited showdown between WBC World Flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (18-1 14 KOs) and McWilliams Arroyo (21-4 16 KOs).

16:50 BST LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

4 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
THOMAS CARTY 18st 3lbs v IGORS VASILJEVS 15st 11lbs 11oz        
(Dublin, Ireland)                      (Riga, Latvia)

followed by

6 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
JOHN HEDGES 12st 10lbs 8oz  v BEN THOMAS 12st 11lbs 12oz                 
(Takeley, England)                         (Bolton, England)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest
JORDAN THOMPSON 14st 3lbs 6oz v PIOTR PODLUCKI 13st 13lbs 5oz            
(Manchester, England)                          (Warsaw, Poland)

followed by

8 x 2 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest
ELLIE SCOTNEY 8st 11lbs 8oz v EVA CANTOS 8st 10lbs 13oz               
(Catford, England)                         (Elda, Spain)

followed by

19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN

10 x 3 mins vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title
YOUSSEF KHOUMARI 9st 3lbs 4oz v JORGE CASTANEDA 9st 2lbs 15oz                 
(Wembley, England)                              (Texas, USA)

followed by

10 x 3 mins vacant WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title
CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 7lbs v MAREK MATYJA 12st 6lbs 7oz                
(Crystal Palace, England)         (Wroclaw, Poland)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
JOHNNY FISHER 17st 4lbs 2oz v ALVARO TERRERO 16st 12lbs                  
(Romford, England)                        (Cadiz, Spain)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
ALEN BABIC 15st 4lbs 5oz v ERIC MOLINA 18st 5lbs                 
(Zagreb, Croatia)                     (Texas, USA)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight World Titles
CHANTELLE CAMERON 9st 13lbs 9oz v MARY MCGEE 9st 13lbs 10oz                 
(Northampton, England)                            (Indiana, USA)

New York (October 29, 2021)–IBF Junior Welterweight World champion “Merciless” Mary McGee will take on Undefeated WBC champion Chantelle Cameron in a much anticipated unification bout on Saturday at The O2 Arena in London.

The Ring Magazine Belt will also be on the line.

The fight will headline a card that will be streamed LIVE on DAZN (2 PM ET).

The bout is part of a tournament that will crown an undisputed champion as WBA champion Kali Reis will take on Jessica Camara on November 19th in New Hampshire. The vacant WBO Title will also be at stake.

McGee of Gary, Indiana is managed by Split-T Management under the guidance of Brian Cohen, and has an outstanding record of 27-3 with 19 knockouts.

The 35 year-old McGee is a 16 year-professional, and had an early win over Kristi Follmer (16-1). Mary won the IBF Title with a 10th round stoppage over Ana Laura Esteche on December 5, 2019. She has defended the title once by stopping Deanha Hobbs (8-1) in nine rounds on February 8, 2020 in Hammond, Indiana.

Cameron, 30 of Northampton, England, has a record of 14-0 with eight knockouts.

Cameron is a four-year professional, who has wins over Edith Ramos (5-1-1), Viviane Obenauf (12-3), Anahai Ester Sanchez (19-4). Cameron won the WBC title on October 4, 2020 with a 10-round unanimous decision over Adriana Dos Santos Araujo (6-0) in England. Like McGee, she has one title defense, and that was a 5th round stoppage over Melissa Hernandez on May 29th in Las Vegas,.

Mary McGee–Press Conference Quotes

“I’ve trained really hard for this fight; I knew a long time ago that I would be fighting Chantelle because I would listen to her saying she wanted to fight one of the champions – I made sure I prepared for her from that day. When I was offered this fight, I was excited because I knew I could sit next to Eddie Hearn.

“I knew that sitting next to Eddie Hearn, and with Matchroom, was one of the pinnacles of boxing. So, to be a female fighter who used to sell tickets out of her car all night just to get a fight, to sitting up here, I’m more than ready. It’s going to be an exciting fight.

“I started boxing when I was 14, I stayed amateur for maybe five years, after winning the golden gloves a couple years in a row, I needed to make a living for myself, so I went pro. They said you could make $100 a round boxing; it was what I loved to do so I said, ‘hey this sounds like a steal for me’. As I got better and kept winning, I realized that my opponents cost more money, so I had to get out and sell tickets night and day just to get on the card and make sure my opponent got paid.

“I know it’s going to be a tough fight; I’ve watched her beat the hell out of girls and I thought, ‘yeah, I’ve got to make sure I get out there and do my real work’. She’s not coming to lose, I made sure I worked hard for her. I take this fight very seriously.

“I don’t believe so, some of the girls she fought, like the girls she got the title from, she came overweight and out of shape. Chantelle beat her but I can beat someone who’s overweight and out of shape too. Melissa is a good champion, but at Featherweight. I’m a natural Super-Lightweight so I know I have a better chance than those other girls.

“I didn’t come all the way across the pond just to get beat, it’s going to be a rumble in the jungle, like in the Ali days, she’s not going to just beat me believe that.”

McGee, who is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, weighed 139.6 lbs while Cameron was 139.5

If Victorious, McGee will join Teofimo Lopez as Split-T Management fighters who hold the Ring Magazine Title.

Photos: Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing