The boxing community is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Paul McCullagh Jr., a talented 25-year-old boxer from Belfast. McCullagh had a successful amateur career, claiming the Ulster Elite heavyweight title in 2019 and representing Ireland in international matches.
With two professional wins under his belt, McCullagh, known as ‘The Irish Drago,’ fought for both the St. John Bosco club in West Belfast and his family’s McCullagh’s ABC in Dunmurry.
He came from a boxing family legacy, as his grandfather, Paul McCullagh, was a renowned Belfast boxing coach who trained notable fighters like Barry McGuigan and Hugh Russell before passing away in 2018 at the age of 72.
McCullagh’s father, also named Paul, a former champion amateur boxer and now a professional referee, expressed his grief over his son’s passing. The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) also mourned the loss, highlighting McCullagh’s achievements and expressing condolences to his family, friends, and club members.
Former teammate Aidan Walsh and trainer Jonathan O’Brien shared heartfelt tributes to McCullagh, remembering him fondly. The Belfast boxing community joined in honoring McCullagh’s memory, acknowledging his contributions to the sport and offering condolences to his loved ones.
The passing of Paul McCullagh Jr. marks a profound loss in the boxing world, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
