Paul McCullagh Jr: Belfast boxer dies at the age of 25

Tributes have been paid to Belfast boxer Paul McCullagh Jr, who passed away at the age of 25 after a short illness.

As an amateur, McCullagh was Ulster Elite heavyweight champion in 2019 and has won both of his fights as a professional.

The McCullagh family is synonymous with boxing in Belfast and his father and grandfather were champion amateur boxers.

McCullagh’s grandfather Paul, who passed away in 2018, was a highly regarded trainer to the likes of Barry McGuigan, Hugh Russell and current IBF welterweight champion Anthony Kakas, while his father, also called Paul, is a well-known referee.

McCullagh Junior was a member of St John Bosco Belfast as well as the McCullagh ABC Family, winning his first senior cap in 2012.

Following his success in the Ulster Elite in 2019, he represented Ulster and Ireland on the international stage before turning professional, when he defeated Anthony Woolery on his debut in 2020 and beat Ben Thomas the following year.

The Irish Amateur Boxing Federation said it sent its “deepest condolences to Paul’s family, club and loved ones.”

Olympic bronze medalist Aidan Walsh said on social media that “we will never forget our memories together.”

St Paul’s Antrim ABC said McCullagh Jr was a “credit” to the sport.

“Paul’s achievements and proud boxing heritage have made him an asset to Irish boxing,” she posted on social media.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him at this very difficult time.”