Irish boxing mourning tragic death of Paul McCullagh Junior, 25, with Olympic medallist leading tributes
His love of boxing was passed down through generations of his well-known family
THE Irish boxing community is collectively grieving the shock death of Paul McCullagh Junior at the age of just 25.
He’s said to have passed away after a short struggle with illness.
The Irish Athletic Boxing Association broke the news to many earlier today, posting: “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 pro after his 2019 success, and recorded a number of wins.
“Paul’s grandfather and father were both champion amateur boxers, the latter boxing out of Immaculata BC. Paul’s grandfather was a highly regarded pro and amateur coach and his father is a pro referee.
“IABA extends deepest condolences to Paul’s family, club and loved ones.”
A further tribute came from the Boxing Tickets Northern Ireland account on X.
It read: “Sadly, we have woke to the terrible news that Paul McCullagh has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this terrible time.
“An extremely talented boxer and an absolute gentleman. You’ll be deeply missed by all who knew you. Rest in Peace ‘Irish Drago’.”
The Belfast native enjoyed a successful amateur career before turning professional.
As an amateur he claimed the Ulster Elite heavyweight title for 2019 and went on to represent Ireland on the international stage versus the Netherlands.
Back then he was a teammate of Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Aidan Walsh. Following this morning’s sad news, Walsh expressed his condolences.
He said: “RIP my big mate I’ll never forget our memories together.”
Belfast boxing hero Carl Frampton added a tribute of his own.
He said: “Heartbreaking to hear the terrible news about the very talented Paul McCullough Jnr. Deepest sympathies to his Dad, Paul and the rest of his family and friends.”
Another individual tribute came from Sean. He recalled: “Heartbreaking to hear this, Paul was an absolute gentle giant, had time for everyone and never without a smile!
“My prayers are with his family at this terrible time. Go ndéana Dia trócaire air.”
McCullagh only fought twice as a pro with the second of his two wins coming in April of 2021.
As evident from IABA’s statement, McCullagh’s family is steeped in the sweet science as grandfather Paul is renowned for having trained many of the north’s best boxers down through the years.
He counted Barry McGuigan and Hugh Russell among his proteges. He died in October 2018 at the age of 72.
