Ireland has produced some of the greatest boxers in the world. From legends such as Barry McGuigan and Steve Collins to modern-day superstars like Katie Taylor and Carl Frampton, Irish boxers have been at the forefront of the sport for generations.
With a long and proud history of success in the ring, Ireland is one of the most respected boxing nations in the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best boxers Ireland has ever produced and discuss their accomplishments.
From world champions to Olympic medalists, these are the best boxing players Ireland has ever seen.
1. Barry McGuigan
Finbar Patrick McGuigan MBE is an Irish boxing promoter and former professional boxer. He was born in the small town of Clones in Ireland and was given the nickname The Clones Cyclone.
His boxing career was successful, as he held the WBA and lineal featherweight titles from 1985 to 1986.McGuigan is well-known in the world of boxing, both for his success as a boxer and for his work as a promoter.
He currently heads up the Cyclone Promotions boxing company, which he founded in 2000.
He has worked with some of the biggest names in boxing over the years and has been successful in bringing major boxing tournaments to Ireland.McGuigan has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of his achievements in the boxing industry.
He has also been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, in recognition of his successful career as a boxer.
McGuigan has been an inspiring figure in the boxing world, both for his success in the ring and for his contributions to the promotion and growth of the sport.
He has worked hard to promote the sport in Ireland and has been an important part of the Irish boxing scene for many years.
2. Steve Collins
Stephen Collins is a former professional boxer from Ireland who competed in the sport from 1986 to 1997. He earned the nickname of ‘The Celtic Warrior’ during his time in the sport, and is widely considered to be the most successful male Irish boxer in recent history.
During his career, Collins achieved a remarkable feat of holding both the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles simultaneously and never lost a fight while he was champion.
This impressive feat has seen Collins become a celebrated figure in Irish boxing and wider sports circles. Collins began his career in amateur boxing where he claimed multiple titles. He then moved into professional boxing in 1986 and quickly began to achieve success.
In 1989, he won the WBO middleweight title in a match against American boxer, Lindell Holmes. He then defended this title four times, including a victory against the former world champion, Doug DeWitt.
In 1992, Collins moved up to the super-middleweight division and won the WBO super-middleweight world title against American boxer, Charles Brewer. He defended this title five times, with the last defense being a unanimous decision over British boxer, Chris Eubank.
Collins’ success in both divisions has seen him become the most successful male Irish boxer in recent history. He was never defeated while champion and retired in 1997 with an impressive record of thirty-three wins and two draws.
His legacy has seen him become an icon in the Irish boxing community and beyond. He is credited for inspiring a new generation of Irish boxers, and his achievements will go down in the history of Irish sports.
3. Carl Frampton
Carl Frampton MBE is a former professional boxer from Northern Ireland who had an impressive career spanning from 2009 to 2021. He held world championships in two weight classes, establishing himself as an elite fighter in both the super-bantamweight and featherweight divisions.
In 2014, he became a world champion in the super-bantamweight division after he won the WBA and IBF titles. He held onto those titles until 2016, where he moved up a division to the featherweight division and won the WBA title. He kept hold of the featherweight title until 2017.
Throughout his career, Carl Frampton MBE has achieved incredible feats. He has achieved multiple world championship titles in two different weight classes and has shown great resilience and determination in the ring.
His career is an example to any boxer aspiring to become a world champion.
4. Rinty Monaghan
John Joseph Monaghan was an Irish boxer from Belfast, who achieved fame during the post-war period. He held the world flyweight title and rose to become a formidable and undisputed champion.
His success in the ring made him a beloved figure in his home city, and he was admired for his determination and skill. Monaghan’s ascent to the top of the boxing world was remarkable. He started out in humble beginnings and worked his way up through the ranks.
His hard work and dedication paid off, and by the late 1940s he had become undisputed world flyweight champion.
His career was marked by a series of impressive wins against formidable opponents, and he was acclaimed by fans around the world. Monaghan’s reign as world champion lasted from 1948 to 1951, when he finally relinquished his title.
He continued to fight in the ring until the late 1950s, and his enthusiasm and determination kept him at the top of the boxing world for many years.
He retired in 1959, having won many titles and accolades. Monaghan was a hero in Belfast, and he was celebrated for his hard work and success in the ring.
He was an inspiration to many people, and his story of success was a reminder that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible. Monaghan’s legacy lives on in his home city and across the world, and he will always be remembered as an inspirational figure and champion.
5. Wayne McCullough
Wayne Pocket Rocket McCullough was a professional boxer from Northern Ireland who fought from 1993 to 2008. During his career, he achieved a great deal of success by becoming the first boxer from Northern Ireland to win a WBC championship.
He held the WBC bantamweight title from 1995 to 1997, a feat that had never been accomplished before.McCullough was considered to be a highly talented boxer, and during his career he won several important titles.
His greatest success came in 1995 when he won the WBC bantamweight championship, becoming the first Northern Irish boxer to do so.
This victory was a major milestone for the small nation, and it served to inspire other young boxers to pursue their dreams. In addition to his boxing career, McCullough was also involved in other sports.
He was an accomplished athlete in various sports, such as track and field, swimming, and tennis.
He was also active in charity work, and he served as a mentor to young boxers in Northern Ireland.McCullough was known for his dedication to the sport of boxing, and he was respected by his peers in the boxing world.
He had a strong work ethic and was highly motivated to succeed.
His commitment to the sport has earned him the nickname “Pocket Rocket”, and he has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Although he retired from professional boxing in 2008, McCullough remains a prominent figure in the sport today.
He continues to serve as a mentor to young boxers, and he is a frequent guest on boxing talk shows and other media outlets. He is an inspiration to many and a testament to the success that can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
6. Jimmy McLarnin
James Archibald McLarnin was a legendary Irish professional boxer in the early 20th Century. He began his career in 1919, and by the time he retired in 1936, he had become a two-time welterweight world champion.
He fought all over the world, from the United States to the Philippines, and amassed an impressive 31 wins out of a total of 37 fights.McLarnin was known for his fast hands and accurate punches, leading to his success.
He was also known for his tenacity and courage in the ring, making him a fan favorite. His list of victories includes wins over world champions such as Jack Britton, Jimmy McLarnin, and Young Corbett III.
McLarnin’s legacy is further sealed by his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995. It is no surprise then that McLarnin is often referred to as the greatest Irish boxer of all time.
His impressive record and skill in the ring make him a true icon of the sport, and his achievements are an inspiration to aspiring boxers all over the world.
The fact that he was able to make it to the top even with the odds stacked against him makes him a symbol of courage and determination.
7. John Caldwell
John Caldwell was a talented Irish boxer who achieved great success in the sport. He participated in the 1956 Summer Olympics held in Melbourne, Australia, and ultimately won the bronze medal in the flyweight division.
Caldwell was renowned for his excellent boxing skills and technique, allowing him to be successful in a number of competitions.
He won the world bantamweight crown in 1961, cementing his place as an elite fighter. Caldwell was a highly skilled tactician who could adapt to any situation in the ring. He had a strong jab and a powerful left hook that could floor opponents.
He was also a great defensive fighter who used his footwork and agility to dodge incoming punches.
Additionally, his experience and knowledge of the sport enabled him to anticipate his opponent’s moves and counter them effectively. Thanks to his skill and determination, John Caldwell was able to reach the highest levels of the sport.
He was a respected figure in the boxing world and his achievements are still remembered today. His performance at the 1956 Summer Olympics serves as a testament to his talent and his ability to perform under pressure.
8. Dave McAuley
David Anthony McAuley, MBE is a renowned and well-respected former professional boxer from Northern Ireland. His career in boxing spanned from 1983 to 1992 and during this time, he achieved great success.
In 1989, he became the International Boxing Federation (IBF) flyweight champion and held the title until 1992. He also made two attempts to become the World Boxing Association (WBA) flyweight champion, in 1987 and 1988, though he ultimately fell short.
Despite this, he did manage to win the British flyweight title in 1986. McAuley’s career achievements are incredibly impressive and he was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of his contribution to boxing.
9. Tom Sharkey
Thomas “Sailor Tom” Sharkey was a boxer who had an impressive career spanning from 1893 to 1904. He is widely recognized for his two fights against the heavyweight champion, James J. Jeffries.
According to Sharkey’s recorded career, he won an impressive 40 fights, had 7 losses, and 5 draws. His prowess in the ring was so impressive that he was named to the Ring Magazine’s list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.
This is a great honor for Sharkey, as the magazine is well-known for recognizing some of the best boxers in the business. Sharkey’s career in the ring may have been short-lived, but his legacy lives on today.
He is remembered as one of the greatest boxers of his time and an example of what hard work and dedication can accomplish.
10. Tyson Fury
Tyson Luke Fury is a British professional boxer who is currently the World Boxing Council heavyweight title holder. He has held this title since 2020 and has had a successful boxing career prior to that.
From 2015 to 2016, Fury held the unified heavyweight title, which is a significant achievement. Additionally, he also held the Ring magazine title twice, between 2015 and 2022. This makes him one of the most decorated professional boxers in the world.
His career has been impressive, as he has been able to maintain his winning streak and is considered one of the best boxers of his generation.
11. Paul McCloskey
Paul McCloskey is a former professional boxer from Northern Ireland who had a successful career in the ring from 2005 to 2013.
During his time as a boxer, he achieved several accolades, including the British super-lightweight title from 2008 to 2009 and the European super-lightweight title from 2009 to 2011.
In 2011, he also challenged for the WBA super-lightweight title, although he was not successful in claiming the championship. Throughout his boxing career, McCloskey was highly regarded for his skill and tenacity.
He was known for his technical prowess and often displayed great poise and determination when competing in the ring.
His unique style and ability to adapt to different opponents earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans worldwide.McCloskey’s impressive career came to an end in 2013, but he left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing.
He is still remembered fondly in Northern Ireland and beyond, and his accomplishments are a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
12. Jason Quigley
Jason Robert Quigley is an Irish professional boxer who has had a long and successful career in the boxing world. He is best known for challenging for the WBO middleweight title in November 2021.
This challenge was an impressive feat for Quigley and was a testament to his skill and dedication as a boxer. Prior to his challenge for the WBO middleweight title, Quigley had also held regional titles.
Specifically, he was the WBC-NABF middleweight champion from 2017 to 2019, and the WBO-NABO middleweight champion from May to November 2021.
This regional success speaks to Quigley’s dominance in the middleweight division, and his ability to compete at a high level. Overall, Jason Robert Quigley has had an impressive career in professional boxing.
He has challenged for the WBO middleweight title and has held several regional titles. He is a testament to the hard work and dedication it takes to succeed in the sport of boxing.
13. Mike McTigue
Mike McTigue was a legendary boxer who made history in the 1920s. He was the light heavyweight boxing champion of the world from 1923 to 1925, a remarkable two year reign. During this time, he was widely regarded as one of the top fighters in his division.
Mike McTigue was renowned for his relentless style of boxing and his ability to outlast opponents in long bouts. He was a powerful puncher and had a strong chin, making him a formidable opponent.
His most famous fight was against Battling Siki in 1923, which he won by knockout in the sixth round. After his reign as champion ended, Mike McTigue continued to fight until 1932, when he retired with a record of 77 wins, 8 losses and 1 draw.
His accomplishments in the ring earned him the nickname “Bold Mike” and he is remembered as one of the greatest light heavyweight boxers of all time.
14. Nonpareil Dempsey
John Edward Kelly, commonly known as Nonpareil Jack Dempsey, was an Irish-born American boxer and the first holder of the World Middleweight Championship.
This was due to his remarkable ability in the ring, which earned him the nickname “Nonpareil”, meaning “unrivalled” or “unbeatable”. He was renowned for his skills in the boxing world and was seen as an individual of exceptional talent.
Kelly’s reputation as a boxer was so great that he was able to secure the World Middleweight Championship title. This title was the first world title of its kind and it was only possible because of Kelly’s outstanding skill and determination in the ring.
He was seen as a formidable opponent by his opponents and was feared by many. His ability to outwit and outplay his opponents was unparalleled in the boxing world and it was this that earned him the name “Nonpareil”.
In addition to his technical ability, Kelly was also known for his mental strength. He was determined to win each fight and his unwavering focus and commitment to the sport saw him surpass all expectations in the ring.
His dedication to the sport was evident in his training and in his performance during fights. He was able to keep his composure and make the most out of every opportunity presented to him, which often gave him an advantage over his opponents.
John Edward Kelly was a true champion and was well-deserving of his nickname “Nonpareil”.
His remarkable skills in the ring and his mental strength saw him become the first holder of the World Middleweight Championship, a feat that would not have been possible without his exceptional talent and dedication.
15. TJ Doheny
Terence John Doheny is a successful Irish professional boxer. He achieved a prestigious title in 2018 when he won the IBF super-bantamweight championship. He defended his championship for a full year until 2019 when he decided to challenge for a higher title.
He sought out the WBA super-bantamweight championship in 2019, but ultimately failed in his pursuit. Despite not winning the title, Doheny is still a highly-regarded boxer.
He has earned the respect of the boxing community for his impressive record and for his willingness to take on tough challenges. It is expected that Terence John Doheny will continue to challenge himself and push the limits of his boxing ability in the future.
16. Andy Lee
Andy Lee is a retired Irish professional boxer who fought in the middleweight division from 2006 to 2017.
He achieved a major milestone in 2014 when he became the first member of the travelling community to win a major world title, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) middleweight title, which he held until 2015.
In addition, he is the second cousin of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, making him part of a distinguished boxing family. Throughout his career, Lee amassed an impressive record of 37 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw.
He was known for his strong left hook and solid defense, often out-boxing and outsmarting his opponents. He also achieved notable victories over world champions such as Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
and Matt Korobov.Aside from his in-ring accomplishments, Lee was a strong advocate for the Travelling community. He often spoke out about the discrimination they face, and he was determined to make sure that his success in the sport could help make a difference.
He was also a strong supporter of charities such as the Irish Cancer Society and Barnardos. Andy Lee will forever be remembered as one of the greats in Irish boxing, and a pioneer for the Travelling community.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to dream big and fight for what they believe in.
17. John Joe Nevin
John Joseph “John Joe” Nevin is a renowned Irish professional boxer and a two-time Olympian. He made his debut on the big stage in 2008 when he represented his country in the Beijing Olympics.
His hard work and dedication paid off in 2012 when he competed in the London Olympics and took home the silver medal. His accomplishments earned him the title of two-time Olympian, and his legacy as one of the greatest boxers in Irish history will live on forever.
John Joe Nevin has achieved many successes in his boxing career. He won the Irish National Senior Championship in 2009 and then went on to win the European Union Amateur Boxing Championships in 2010.
He has also won a number of international boxing tournaments, including the 2010 European Games. His Olympic success earned him a nomination for the World Amateur Boxing Championships in 2013, and he won the bronze medal.
John Joe has earned a wide variety of honors and awards throughout his career. He was named the Irish Sports Council’s Athlete of the Year in 2009, and the Irish Amateur Boxer of the Year in both 2010 and 2011.
He has also received a number of other prestigious awards, including the AIBA Boxer of the Year Award in 2012. John Joe Nevin is a true inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
His determination and perseverance have enabled him to reach the top of his sport, and his legacy will live on for generations.
He is a shining example of what hard work and dedication can achieve, and he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest boxers in Irish history.
18. Brian Magee
Brian Magee is a celebrated former professional boxer from Northern Ireland. He rose to fame during his boxing career, which spanned from 1999 to 2012. During this time, Magee achieved several notable accomplishments.
In 2012, he held the WBA Super-Middleweight title and the IBO title from 2001 to 2004. He also held the British Super Middleweight title in 2008 and the EBU European title in 2010. Magee began his boxing career with determination and a drive for success.
He quickly rose to the top of the professional boxing world, becoming a champion in multiple weight classes. His biggest accomplishment was holding the WBA Super Middleweight title in 2012, a feat that was a crowning achievement in his career.
He also held the IBO title from 2001 to 2004, making him one of the most successful boxers in the world at the time. In addition to his international titles, Magee also held several regional titles.
In 2008, he held the British Super Middleweight title, and in 2010, he held the EBU European title.
These accomplishments further cemented Magee’s status as an elite boxer, and he was widely respected among his peers. Overall, Brian Magee was an incredible boxer who achieved a great deal of success during his long and illustrious career.
He held international titles, as well as several regional titles, and was widely respected by his peers. Magee’s accomplishments will be remembered for years to come.
19. Hugh Russell
Hugh Russell is a renowned former professional boxer from Northern Ireland. He was active in the sport from 1981 to 1985 and was known for his impressive accomplishments.
During that time, he won the British bantamweight title in 1983 and held the British flyweight title from 1984 to 1985. During his time as a professional boxer, Hugh Russell was a force to be reckoned with.
His impressive record earned him a lot of respect from his peers, and he was well-known for his strength and agility in the ring. He was also known for his ability to adjust to different fighting styles and for his ability to control the pace of the fight and outlast opponents.
Hugh Russell’s accomplishments have been celebrated at the highest levels of professional boxing. His accomplishments in the sport were recognized with several awards, including the British Amateur Boxing Association’s award for Excellence in Sportsmanship.
In addition, he has been inducted into the Irish Boxing Hall of Fame. Today, Hugh Russell is remembered as one of the most successful professional boxers from Northern Ireland.
His impressive accomplishments and contributions to the sport have earned him a place in the history books and a lasting legacy. He will always be remembered as a great athlete who was able to achieve success in a sport that requires dedication, hard work, and skill.
20. Brendan Irvine
Brendan Emmet Irvine is an amateur boxer from Belfast, Ireland, who is nicknamed the “Wee Rooster”. He has made history by becoming the first ever medalist for Ireland at the European Games, after winning a silver medal in the men’s 49 kg division at the 2015 European Games.
His success marks a major achievement for Irish amateur boxing and is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Irvine has been actively competing in boxing tournaments since he was a young boy, and he has worked tirelessly to improve his skills and technique.
He is known for his quick reflexes and agility in the ring, and his ability to stay calm and composed under pressure. He is also highly motivated to succeed and is always striving to reach the next level of his boxing career.
The silver medal he won at the European Games was a great accomplishment for Irvine, and his success has inspired other young Irish boxers to pursue their dreams and reach for the highest levels of excellence.
His accomplishments have been celebrated throughout Ireland, and he has become a role model for aspiring boxers around the world. Overall, Brendan Emmet Irvine is an incredible athlete who has achieved great success in the world of amateur boxing.
His dedication and determination have earned him the respect of fans and competitors around the world, and his inspiring story serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can pay off.
21. Deirdre Gogarty
Deirdre Gogarty is a retired Irish female boxer who now works as a boxing coach. She comes from Drogheda, a town located in the Republic of Ireland, and attended the local Drogheda Grammar School.
During her time as a boxer she competed in numerous fights throughout Europe and achieved a great deal of success. Following her retirement from the sport, she decided to become a coach and is now the head coach of the Ragin’ Cajun Boxing Club.
She has been in charge of the club for several years now and has helped to develop the skills of many aspiring boxers. Gogarty is well-known in the boxing world and is highly respected for her accomplishments both in and out of the ring.
22. John McNally
John McNally was an impressive figure in the boxing world. He was an Irish boxer who won a silver medal in the bantamweight division of the 1952 Summer Olympics. In the final match of this tournament, McNally faced Pentti Hämäläinen of Finland.
Unfortunately, he lost the match via a split decision. Despite this loss, McNally was still a very successful boxer. He was the first Irish boxer to win an Olympic medal and his impressive performance at the tournament earned him a great deal of respect.
McNally’s success at the Olympics helped to cement Ireland’s reputation as a strong presence in the boxing world.
23. Philip Sutcliffe Sr.
Philip Sutcliffe Sr. is a remarkable athlete with an impressive sporting career. He is a former boxer and two-time Olympian, having participated in the 1980 and 1984 Olympic Games.
He is a pioneer in the world of sports, having competed in the Olympic Games which are widely regarded as the pinnacle of sporting achievement. At the 1980 Games in Moscow, Russia, Philip Sutcliffe Sr.
competed in the light welterweight division, where he was defeated in the second round by eventual silver medalist Istvan Kovacs of Hungary.
Four years later at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles, California, he competed in the lightweight division but was defeated in the first round by the eventual gold medalist, Juan Herrera of Cuba.Despite being eliminated early in both Games, Philip Sutcliffe Sr.
is still remembered as a remarkable athlete who achieved a great deal in his boxing career. He was an inspiration to many and serves as an example of how dedication and hard work can lead to success.
His courage and determination is an example to all athletes and aspiring Olympians.
24. Freddie Gilroy
Frederick Gilroy was a Northern Irish boxer who had an incredibly successful career. In 1956, he won a bronze medal representing Ireland at the Summer Olympics in Melbourne, competing in the Bantamweight class.
After his success at the Olympics, he continued to pursue boxing professionally and was rewarded with an incredible streak of success.
In 1959, he won both the Commonwealth and European Bantamweight titles, and he even got the opportunity to contend for the World Bantamweight Title in 1960.
Gilroy was an incredibly talented and accomplished boxer, and his drive and determination resulted in a string of impressive achievements.
25. Bernard Dunne
Bernard Dunne is an Irish former professional boxer who achieved great success in his career. He was the World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Bantamweight champion and the European Super Bantamweight champion.
He competed professionally from 2000 to 2014 and held the WBA title from 2009 to 2010. He was born in Dublin, Ireland and began boxing at the age of 8. After competing in numerous amateur tournaments, he decided to turn professional at the age of 20.
He had a successful amateur career, winning the Irish Senior National Championships in 2000 and 2001. Dunne rose quickly through the ranks of professional boxing, becoming the European Super Bantamweight champion in 2004 and the WBA Super Bantamweight champion in 2009.
He successfully defended his titles several times before losing them in 2010. After that, he tried to make a comeback but was unable to regain his championship form. Despite his loss of the titles, Dunne is still considered one of the most successful Irish boxers of all time.
He was inducted into the Irish Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014, a testament to his contributions to the sport. He continues to be an inspiration to aspiring boxers in Ireland and around the world.
26. Eamonn Loughran
Eamonn Loughran was an accomplished professional boxer from Ireland. He began his career in 1987 and fought until 1996. During that time, he had a great deal of success in the welterweight division.
He held the WBO welterweight title from 1993 to 1996 and defended it five times. Before that, he held the Commonwealth welterweight title from 1992 to 1993. This further demonstrates his excellent boxing ability and success in the sport.
He achieved success in both regional and international levels, making him a true champion.
27. Kevin McBride
Kevin Martin McBride is a former professional boxer from Ireland who achieved fame for his win over Mike Tyson in 2005. This fight was Tyson’s last professional fight before retiring. Before turning professional, McBride competed for Ireland in the 1992 Summer Olympics.
He is married to Danielle Curran.McBride has had a successful career in boxing, both as an amateur and professional. As an amateur, he was part of the Irish team at the 1992 Olympics, where he scored an impressive win over a Cuban competitor.
After turning professional, he went on to face some of the top names in the sport including Mike Tyson. He eventually won the fight with Tyson, ending the legendary boxer’s career in the ring.McBride has also had a successful personal life.
He is married to Danielle Curran, and the couple have three children. Together, they have built a strong and supportive family.
McBride has been able to focus on his career while still being able to provide a stable home and loving environment for his family.McBride’s win over Tyson has gone down in history as one of the most iconic fights in boxing history.
It was a remarkable victory for McBride, and it cemented his place in the pantheon of boxing greats. His legacy will live on for many years to come.
28. John Duddy
John Francis Duddy is a multi-talented figure in the world of sports and entertainment. Born in Ireland, Duddy began his career as a professional boxer in 2003 and competed in the sport for seven years before retiring in 2010.
During that time, he challenged once for the vacant WBC Silver middleweight title, but ultimately lost in his final fight to Julio César Chávez Jr. After retiring from boxing, Duddy shifted his focus to acting, appearing in several films and television shows.
He has since established himself as a successful actor, starring in a number of notable projects. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Duddy still holds a special place in the hearts of boxing fans for his impressive career in the ring.
29. Sam Storey
Sam Storey is a retired professional boxer who competed in the Super Middleweight division. In 1995, he won the British Super Middleweight Title, a major accomplishment in his career. Storey was born in Belfast, Ireland during a period of civil unrest known as the ‘Troubles’.
Growing up, he was exposed to boxing from a young age as his father was the Irish National Coach. This provided him with the opportunity to learn the sport, and eventually compete professionally.
Storey’s success in the ring is a testament to his dedication and determination to succeed, despite the difficult circumstances he was born into.
30. Eamonn Magee
Eamonn Magee is a retired Irish professional boxer who had a very successful career. He competed from 1995 to 2007 and achieved great success in that time. In 2007, he became the World Boxing Union Welterweight Champion.
He also held the Commonwealth light-welterweight title twice and put up a good fight for the European light-welterweight and British welterweight titles. Magee was known for his aggressive style in the ring and for always pushing himself to the limit.
His dedication to the sport and hard work is what allowed him to reach the top of his division. He was respected by his peers and earned the admiration of boxing fans around the world. Magee’s career was full of highlights, and his accomplishments are truly remarkable.
He will always be remembered for his passion and skill as a boxer and will go down in history as one of the greatest Irish professional boxers of all time.
31. Katie Taylor
Katie Taylor is an Irish professional boxer and former footballer. Taylor is a two-weight world champion and the current undisputed lightweight champion, with titles in both the WBA and IBF divisions. She has held the WBA title since 2017 and the IBF title since 2018.
Taylor is also the current holder of the WBC, WBO, and Ring Magazine lightweight titles.
She has been undefeated in her professional boxing career, with a record of 16-0-0. Taylor had a successful amateur career, winning five Amateur World Championships and six European Championships. She was also a 2012 Olympic gold medalist in the lightweight division.
Taylor has gone on to establish herself as one of the most successful professional boxers in the world.
She has fought and won against some of the top contenders in the lightweight division, including Delfine Persoon, Rose Volante, and Anahi Sánchez. Taylor’s fighting style is based on aggression, speed, and power.
She is known for her combination of punches, and her ability to cut off the ring. In her long and successful career, she has consistently been ranked among the world’s best female boxers. Her skill and determination have made her a household name in the sport of boxing.
32. Ryan Burnett
Ryan Burnett is a former professional boxer who had an impressive career in the sport. He hailed from Northern Ireland and competed from 2013 to 2019. During this time, he achieved greatness by becoming a unified bantamweight world champion.
This meant that he held both the WBA and IBF titles from 2017 to 2018. On a regional level, he was the British bantamweight titleholder from 2015 to 2017. This was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport of boxing.
He was able to achieve success despite the odds and reach the pinnacle of his career. His accomplishments will be remembered for many years to come.
33. Kenny Egan
Kenneth “Kenny” Egan is a prominent Irish politician and boxer from Clondalkin, Dublin. He is best known as an Olympic silver medalist in the 81 kg, Light-Heavyweight boxing division at the 2008 Olympics.
At the time, Egan was the first Irish boxer to win an Olympic medal in sixteen years, and his success was celebrated by the entire nation.
His success was not limited to the Olympics, as Egan also won multiple Irish National boxing championships in the light heavyweight division. Egan’s boxing career began at a young age, with his first bout occurring at the age of sixteen.
He went on to compete at the European, Commonwealth and World Championships, and gained a reputation as a formidable opponent in the ring.
His Olympic success was the pinnacle of his boxing career, as he earned the right to stand on the podium as the silver medalist in the 81 kg, Light-Heavyweight division at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Egan has since retired from boxing and has since become a successful politician.
As a member of the Fianna Fáil party, he was elected to Dublin City Council in 2019 and is currently serving as a Councillor for the Clondalkin Electoral Area.
He is also a member of the Dublin Regional Authority and is an advocate for sport in the region. Egan is a respected member of the Irish sporting community and is a role model to many aspiring athletes.
He is a symbol of hope and ambition for Irish athletes, and his achievements continue to inspire generations of Irish sportsmen and women.
34. Michael Conlan
Michael John Conlan is an Irish professional boxer who has made an impressive impact on the boxing world. In 2022, he challenged for the WBA featherweight title and in 2023 he challenged for the IBF featherweight title.
Conlan has proven himself to be an accomplished and determined fighter, pushing himself to the limits of his capabilities. He is ambitious and motivated to win, which is evident from his achievements.
He is determined to make a mark on the sport of boxing and has done so through his dedication and hard work. With his impressive record, he has become one of the most respected boxers in the world.
Conlan’s career is a testament to the power of hard work and determination and shows that anything is possible with the right attitude and perseverance.
35. Darren Sutherland
Darren John Sutherland was a professional boxer from Mulhuddart, Dublin. He started out as an amateur boxer, and his career culminated in a 2008 Olympic bronze medal.
This medal was a great honor for Sutherland, as it showed that he was among the best in the world in his sport. Sutherland had an impressive amateur career, competing in tournaments across the globe. He was known for his tenacity and determination, as well as his technical skill.
He was also affectionately known as “Sully” among his peers. His Olympic bronze medal represented his success in the international amateur boxing scene. Sutherland was known for his punching power, as well as his ability to take a punch.
He was a fan favorite and was respected for his skill and hard work.
He was a determined and passionate fighter, which was evident in his performances in the ring. Sutherland’s Olympic bronze medal was a symbol of his hard work and dedication to the sport, and a testament to his skill.
He was an inspirational figure in the boxing world, and he will always be remembered as a great boxer.
36. Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali was a legendary figure in American sports and activism. He was renowned for his incredible boxing skills and was famously nicknamed “the Greatest”.
His influence on the world of boxing in the 20th Century was immense, and he is often referred to as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. During his boxing career, Ali held the Ring magazine heavyweight title from 1964 to 1970.
He was an astute fighter, both physically and mentally, and his feats in the boxing ring earned him admiration and respect from fans and fellow fighters alike. Ali was not only an accomplished boxer, but also a passionate activist.
He was a vocal opponent of racism and was famously quoted as saying “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee”. His activism and skill in the ring made him an icon of the sport, and he was a major influence on young boxers of the era.
He inspired many to take up the sport, and his legacy lives on today in the form of his numerous admirers and fans. Ali was also a philanthropist, as he donated large sums of money to various charities throughout his life.
In addition to his charitable work, he was also a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. He stood up for the rights of African Americans and spoke out against social injustice.
His courage and commitment to justice and equality made him a hero to many people the world over. The life and legacy of Muhammad Ali will never be forgotten. His courage, skill, and commitment to justice and equality has inspired generations of people.
He will always be remembered as one of the greatest sports figures and activists of the 20th century.
37. Patrick Hyland
Patrick Joseph Hyland is a retired professional boxer from Dublin, Ireland. He is a former two-weight world champion, having won titles at the featherweight and super featherweight divisions. Hyland was born in Dublin, Ireland and started his professional boxing career in 2006.
He quickly established himself as a powerful force in the featherweight division, winning all of his first 19 fights. He earned his first world title fight in 2011, challenging WBA World Featherweight Champion Celestino Caballero.
Hyland lost the fight by a tenth round stoppage. Despite this, Hyland kept fighting and eventually earned himself another world title fight in 2013, challenging for the WBO World Super Featherweight Championship.
This time, he was successful, defeating champion Takashi Uchiyama by unanimous decision to win the title. Hyland defended the title twice before losing it in 2014 to Javier Fortuna. After this, Hyland decided to retire from the sport.
He finished his career with an impressive record of 32 wins (15 by knockout) and 4 losses. Hyland’s career was marked by his impressive performances and his ability to win world titles in two different weight classes.
He is remembered as one of the greatest Irish boxers of all time.
38. Henry Coyle
Henry Coyle is a former professional boxer from Ireland who had a career that spanned from 2007 to 2013. Before his professional career, Coyle had an impressive amateur career. In 2003, he won the Irish welterweight championship, proving his mettle early on in his boxing career.
He parlayed his success in the amateur ranks into an equally successful professional career, culminating in his retirement in 2013. Coyle is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication to one’s craft, demonstrating that hard work and skill can take a person far.
39. Jack Doyle
Joseph “Jack” Doyle was a well-known Irish boxer, actor, and tenor. Originally born Joseph Doyle, he changed his name to Jack when he began his professional career. He was given the nickname “The Gorgeous Gael” due to his impressive physical attributes.
Jack Doyle was a renowned boxer and often a contender for the British Boxing Championship. He was a fierce competitor and was known for his hard-hitting punches and quick reflexes.
He was also known for his showmanship in the ring, often putting on an entertaining show for the crowds. Jack Doyle was also an accomplished actor and singer, appearing in several films and musicals.
He was a talented tenor and had a strong stage presence that captivated audiences. He was also a popular radio personality and was frequently featured on BBC radio.
Jack Doyle was a multi-talented entertainer and athlete who made an incredible impact on the world of sports and entertainment. He was a true icon who will be remembered for his achievements in the ring, on stage, and in film.
40. Paddy Barnes
Patrick Gerard Barnes is an accomplished athlete with a long and successful career in boxing. He started out as an amateur boxer in 2005 and competed until 2016. During that time, Barnes earned a reputation as a formidable opponent.
After a successful amateur career, Barnes decided to turn professional in 2016. He competed as a professional for three more years, until 2019.
Throughout his career, Barnes was known for his strong will and determination, and he consistently put on thrilling performances in the ring. He retired from boxing in 2019, but his legacy will continue to live on.
41. Willie Casey
Willie Casey is an Irish professional boxer who hails from Limerick, Ireland. He first rose to fame in May 2010 when he became the Prizefighter series champion in the super bantamweight division. He won the series by defeating Mark Moran, Josh Wale and Paul McElhinney.
For his powerful and aggressive boxing style, he has been nicknamed “Big Bang”. Casey is a talented boxer who has a knack for delivering knockout punches. He is known for his powerful punches and fast footwork, which have earned him the nickname “Big Bang”.
He is also known for his ability to take a lot of punishment and continue fighting, which has earned him the respect of his opponents. Casey has also earned a reputation for being a hard worker and a dedicated athlete, which has helped him achieve success in his boxing career.
Willie Casey is an inspirational figure in the world of boxing and a role model for aspiring boxers. He is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success, regardless of where you come from.
Casey’s boxing style of aggressive and powerful punches has brought him success throughout his career, and he is an inspiration to many.
42. Jim McCourt
James Vincent McCourt was an Irish boxer from Belfast, Northern Ireland who made a name for himself in the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
In the lightweight division, McCourt won a bronze medal for Ireland, which was a remarkable achievement considering the competitive nature of the Olympics.
His success in the tournament was almost unparalleled, as he reached the semi-finals and was just one match away from a gold medal. However, McCourt faced a formidable opponent in the semi-finals in the form of Russian Velikton Barannikov.
Despite McCourt’s best efforts, he ended up losing in a hotly disputed 3–2 decision. Nevertheless, his performance in the Olympics was impressive and has earned him a place in Irish sporting history.
43. Fred Tiedt
Frederick Tiedt was a renowned fighter who was known for his boxing prowess. He was an amateur boxer first, competing in various amateur competitions before turning professional. As an amateur, Tiedt had a successful career, winning numerous titles and awards.
He was known for his skill and ferocity in the ring, and he quickly gained a reputation as one of the top amateur boxers in the world. When Tiedt decided to turn professional, he continued to display his skill and power in the ring.
He often fought against some of the best professional boxers of his time and was able to hold his own. Despite his success, Tiedt was never able to win a professional title.
However, he was still considered one of the best boxers of his era and was respected by his peers and fans alike. Overall, Frederick Tiedt had a successful career as an amateur and professional boxer.
He was known for his skill and ferocity in the ring and was able to compete with some of the best boxers of his time. Despite never winning a professional title, Tiedt was still considered one of the top boxers of his era and was respected by fans and peers alike.
44. Peter Maher
Peter Maher was an Irish boxer renowned for his impressive strength. He began his boxing career in a successful manner, becoming the Middleweight Champion of Ireland in 1888 and the Heavyweight Champion of Ireland in 1890.
His powerful punch is what defined him, and what made him stand out among other boxers. He was known for his impressive ability to throw a heavy punch with great accuracy and power.
The success of Maher’s career was largely thanks to his powerful punch, which made him a formidable opponent. He was able to use his punches to his advantage in the boxing ring, delivering powerful blows to his opponents that left them stunned.
His punches were so powerful that it earned him the admiration of many boxing fans. Maher’s success in the boxing ring was also due to his hard work and dedication. He trained hard and was always willing to put in the extra effort to improve his skills.
He also had the support of his family and friends, who believed in his potential and encouraged him to pursue his dreams. The success of Peter Maher’s career is a testament to the power of his punch and his dedication to the sport.
He set the tone for future boxers, inspiring them to strive for excellence and to never give up. He is an example of the impact that a powerful punch can have on an athlete’s career, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
45. Darren O’Neill
Darren O’Neill is an accomplished amateur boxer from Ireland. His career highlights include winning the gold medal at the 2009 EU Championships and taking home silver at the 2010 European Championships and 2014 EU Championships.
Darren was also the captain of Ireland’s boxing team at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. He was part of a small, select group of athletes who were honored to lead their country’s contingent at the Olympics. Darren’s success as a boxer has been remarkable.
His gold medal at the 2009 EU Championships was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the sport. His two silver medals at the European Championships and the 2014 EU Championships demonstrate his remarkable consistency and skill as a boxer.
Darren has also been recognized for his leadership and commitment to the sport. His role as the captain of Ireland’s boxing team at the 2012 Summer Olympics was a testament to his influence in the boxing world.
Darren’s passion for the sport and his willingness to serve as an ambassador for his country were evident in his role as the national team captain. Darren O’Neill’s accomplishments in the boxing ring are undeniable.
He has achieved a great deal of success in amateur competitions, and he has also been recognized for his leadership and commitment to the sport. His career has been a testament to the hard work and dedication necessary to reach the pinnacle of success in boxing.
46. Joseph Ward
Joseph Ward is an accomplished Irish professional boxer. He had a successful amateur career, earning three gold medals at the European Championships in 2011, 2015, and 2017.
Additionally, he also won silver medals at the World Championships in 2015 and 2017, and a bronze medal in 2013. His impressive achievements earned him a spot on the Irish Olympic team in 2016, competing in the light-heavyweight division.
His accomplishments as an amateur show his dedication and skill, and have set him up for an impressive professional career.
47. Damaen Kelly
Damaen Kelly was an accomplished professional boxer from Belfast, Northern Ireland. His career in the ring spanned from 1997 to 2006. During that time, Kelly held the IBO flyweight title from 2000 to 2001, and then the IBO super-flyweight title in 2004.
In 2003, he even challenged for the IBF flyweight title. Kelly was a respected boxer who was known for his hard work and dedication to the sport. He was a three-time world champion and had a total of 33 professional fights.
He was a well-liked athlete, and his opponents often praised him for his skill and determination. Throughout his career, Kelly had many memorable moments. He achieved a great feat by winning the IBO flyweight title in 2000.
He then defended his title in 2001 before moving up to the super-flyweight division. In 2004, he won the IBO super-flyweight title, which was another impressive accomplishment.
Kelly also had the opportunity to compete for the IBF flyweight title in 2003, though he ultimately came up short. Despite this, he still had a successful career and was respected by his peers.
He was an important figure in the boxing world and will be remembered for his contributions to the sport.
48. Conor McGregor
Conor Anthony McGregor is an Irish professional mixed martial artist who has achieved unprecedented success in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
He is the first UFC fighter to hold two championships in two different weight classes at the same time, having won the Featherweight and Lightweight divisions.
This accomplishment has cemented McGregor as one of the greatest fighters in the history of UFC.McGregor’s career began in 2008 when he made his professional debut in the Irish Cage of Truth.
Since then, he has gone on to become a champion in multiple weight classes, demonstrating his skill and capabilities in the cage.
He has won a multitude of awards, including the MMA Fighter of the Year award for 2015, and has achieved international fame for his thrilling fights and entertaining persona.McGregor has become one of the most recognizable faces in the world of MMA and has been a part of some of the biggest fights in UFC history, such as his two bouts with Nate Diaz and his highly-anticipated fight with Floyd Mayweather.
His fights have been some of the most watched in the history of the sport, with millions tuning in from all over the world. Overall, Conor Anthony McGregor is an illustrious figure in the world of mixed martial arts.
His accomplishments are unparalleled, and he is sure to remain an iconic figure in the sport for many years to come.
49. Paddy Donovan
Patrick Donovan is an Irish professional boxer who has had success in both the amateur and professional ranks. He is most recognized for his performance at the 2016 World Youth Championships, where he placed in the top three.
He began boxing at a young age, training with his father, and has since gone on to have a very successful career. He has held numerous Irish boxing titles, as well as being a two-time World Youth Champion.
He is known for his strong technique and powerful punches, which have made him a formidable opponent for anyone he faces in the ring.
As a professional, Donovan has won multiple titles, including the Irish National Championship and the WBA Intercontinental Super-Middleweight Championship. He is highly respected in the boxing world and is considered one of the top Irish boxers of all time.
50. Paddy Ryan
Patrick Ryan was an Irish-American boxer, and he made history on May 30, 1880, when he won the American heavyweight championship in a bare-knuckle bout against Joe Goss.
Ryan was the first American heavyweight champion to be crowned in a bare-knuckle fight, and he held onto the title for nearly two years.
During that time, Ryan successfully defended his title against a number of challengers, but on February 7, 1882, he faced perhaps his toughest opponent yet, the exceptional John L. Sullivan.
Sullivan was a formidable opponent, and despite Ryan’s best efforts, he was unable to keep the title in the end, losing to Sullivan by a knockout.
This defeat marked the end of Ryan’s reign as the American heavyweight champion, and Sullivan was able to keep the title until his retirement in 1892.
51. Michael Gomez
Michael Gomez is a former professional boxer who had a successful career that spanned from 1995 to 2009. He was born to a family of Irish Travellers in Longford, Ireland. His family moved to Dublin when he was a young child, and then relocated to London at the age of nine.
After a few years in London, his family made the move to Manchester, England, where he was able to hone his boxing skills. During his time in Manchester, Gomez competed in several professional boxing matches and ultimately became one of the most successful boxers of his era.
He was widely respected for his hard work and determination, and his fights were often sold-out events. After retiring from boxing in 2009, Gomez continues to be a respected figure in the boxing world and remains a role model for aspiring boxers.
Conclusion
The best boxing players in Ireland have shown that they have the skills, determination, and grit to make a name for themselves in the world of professional boxing.
The Irish have proven their worth in the ring and are now widely regarded as some of the best boxers in the world. With a variety of different styles and backgrounds, Irish boxers have something to offer to any boxing fan.
