British boxer with famous granddad dies aged 25 as | Boxing News

Tributes have been flooding in following the tragic death of boxer Paul McCullagh Junior at just 25 years of age. The (*25*)-born fighter had carved out an spectacular beginner profession, capturing the Ulster Elite heavyweight crown in 2019 and proudly donning the Irish vest in a twin nations conflict against the Netherlands.

He secured two victories in the skilled area, with his remaining triumph coming in April 2021. Known as ‘The Irish Drago’, he break up his training between the St. John Bosco membership in West (*25*) and his household’s own McCullagh’s ABC in Dunmurry, carrying on a proud boxing legacy.

He was the grandson of the revered (*25*) champion coach, Paul McCullagh.

His grandfather, who devoted many years to teaching at the Immaculata beginner membership, handed away at 72 in October 2018. The elder McCullagh had labored alongside boxing legends including Barry McGuigan and Hugh Russell.

McCullagh’s father, also called Paul, serves as a skilled referee and was himself a champion beginner boxer.

The Irish Athletic Boxing Association paid their respects, stating: “IABA is saddened by the passing of boxer, 25 year old Paul McCullough Junior. A member of clubs including St. John Bosco Belfast and his family’s McCullagh’s ABC, Paul won his first title in 2012, and an Ulster Elite heavyweight title in 2019. In the same year Paul represented Ulster High Performance against New York and represented Ireland in a dual nations international against the Netherlands.

“Paul turned professional after his 2019 success, and recorded a quantity of wins. Paul’s grandfather and father have been both champion beginner boxers, the latter boxing out of Immaculata BC. Paul’s grandfather was a extremely regarded professional and beginner coach and his father is a professional referee. IABA extends deepest condolences to Paul’s household, membership and family members.”

St Paul’s Boxing Club expressed: “Paul’s achievements and his proud boxing heritage made him a credit to Irish boxing. Our ideas are with all who knew and beloved him at this very tough time. Rest in peace, Paul.”

Aidan Walsh, McCullagh’s former amateur teammate, penned: “RIP my big mate I’ll never neglect our recollections together.”

Jonathan O’Brien, who trained McCullagh, mourned: “Rest in peace my boy, beloved you want my son. You’re in heaven with your grandad Paul.”

Belfast Boxers shared: “Heartbreaking means to start the 12 months. Paul McCullagh Jnr has handed away after a short sickness condolences to his household and pals particularly at St John Bosco boxing membership (*25*) Rest in peace big man.”