Tyrone "The Mighty Celt" McKenna retires after Lewis Crocker defeat
Belfast boxer Tyrone McKenna (23-4-1, 6KO) has announced his retirement from the sport, aged 33, following Saturday's defeat by Lewis Crocker at the SSE Arena, Northern Ireland.
Crocker claimed the WBA continental European title in a fight dubbed 'the Battle of Belfast'.
McKenna made his professional debut in 2012 and ends his career with a record of 23 wins, four defeats and one draw.
"The one title no one will take any time soon is the hardest man in Ireland," McKenna posted on Instagram. "I can take a shot like no other man on this island."
The 6' 1" southpaw added, "I set out to try and become the most entertaining man in Ireland, always taking the hardest fights put to me even when I didn't have to.
"I had some amazing nights with you all – win, lose or draw. I hope I did you all proud."
On the undercard ahead of Jordan Gill's surprise victory over Belfast's Michael Conlan, Crocker came out on top against McKenna, dominating throughout with a display of strong punching that led to a unanimous points victory.
The Irishman had his first five fights in america between 2012-2014. He rturned to NI to fight four times in Belfast in 2015. His start to 2016 did not go well when he was cut above the right eye in an accidental head clash in the first round against Arvydas Trizno in Spain, resulting in a technical decision draw.
He won the BUI Celtic super-lightweight title in November 2016, which he defended successfully once.
His first loss came against future world title contender Jack Catterall in 2018. He bounced back to win the WBC International super-lightweight title which he defended twice then lost to Ohara Davies in the Golden Contract Tournament final in 2020. He won the WBO Inter-Continental super-lightweight title in his next fight, 13 months later, then suffered a third defeat at the hands of world champion Regis Prograis in Dubai. It was the first tme the tough Irishman had been stopped – in round six.
One more win followed in 2022, until his last outing ended with defeat to Crocker. After 28 bouts, over 11 years in the pro ranks, national and regional titles at home, 'The Mighty Celt' will be a fondly remembered titan of Irish boxing.
BBN would like to say thank you for the many years of entertainment and to wish Tyrone all the best in retirement.
Article sponsored by HÖRFA