Pierce O’Leary vs Mark Chamberlain for the IBO world super-lightweight title
“The Big Bang” Pierce O’Leary, will once again be the star turn at the 3Arena in his home city of Dublin on Saturday, August 1, when he goes up against Mark “Thunder” Chamberlain in a first defence of his IBO world super-lightweight title, live on DAZN.
The pair were originally set to deliver a potential thriller back in March before Chamberlain was forced out through illness, with O’Leary proceeding to captivate a packed house by defeating Maxi Hughes in the fifth round to become IBO world champion.
It was a first professional appearance in Dublin for the 26-year-old O’Leary (19-0, 11 KOs) and his popularity was perfectly illustrated by the ‘sold out’ signs being posted well in advance of fight night.
For southpaw Chamberlain (17-1-1, 12 KOs), from Waterlooville, this collision with O’Leary will represent his second major assignment at super lightweight, with him previously having been WBC Silver, WBA Intercontinental and IBF European champion at lightweight.
In his first title tilt at his new weight, the 27-year-old headed north to Altrincham to fight for the British and Commonwealth titles held by the undefeated Jack Rafferty. The judges couldn’t separate the pair after 12 rounds of non-stop action.
Now he takes up the challenge of O’Leary in his home city, and, as the title of the show indicates, it will be ‘No Turning Back’.
“This is a fight we simply had to get done,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Everyone was so excited by the prospect of it back in March, so we just couldn’t let it pass by.
“It is one of those fights where you just know it will deliver. Two young talents, big punchers who don’t take a backward step. All the ingredients are there for a real barnstormer, with a world title on top this time.
“Pierce is spearheading a revival of professional boxing in Dublin, and the reaction to his March homecoming was astounding. The show also witnessed the debuts of two incredible Irish talents in Bobbi Flood and Adam Olaniyan, so there are many special years ahead for the Dublin fight scene.
“August 1 will be another spectacular night of action at the 3Arena and, believe me, it will be worth the wait!”
