Harlem Eubank delivered a statement performance in his hometown of Brighton, dismantling the durable Tyrone McKenna to secure a 10th-round stoppage victory and the IBF Inter-Continental welterweight title. In front of a roaring home crowd, Eubank showcased a potent blend of speed, skill, and power, proving too much for the Belfast battler and propelling himself firmly into the welterweight title picture.
Slow Burn to Blistering Finish
While the opening rounds were measured, with both fighters feeling each other out, Eubank began to assert his dominance from the fourth round onwards. A thunderous overhand right in the fourth jolted the southpaw McKenna, creating a visible nick near his eye and signaling a shift in momentum. McKenna, a veteran known for his toughness, attempted to weather the storm, but Eubank’s offensive output intensified.
In the fifth round, a perfectly placed right hand sent McKenna crashing to the canvas for the first time. Despite a defiant grin from “The Mighty Celt,” the damage was done. Eubank, boxing with composure and a diverse arsenal, expertly utilized his jab to create openings and control the distance. As the fight wore on, McKenna struggled to cope with Eubank’s superior speed and accuracy.
Knockdowns and Body Shots Seal the Deal
The seventh round saw another right hand find its mark, sending McKenna sprawling for the second knockdown. Visibly weary but unyielding, McKenna shook his head, attempting to dismiss the growing pressure. However, Eubank relentlessly targeted McKenna’s body in the eighth, exploiting a vulnerability previously exposed by Mohamed Mimoune. The body shots rained in, further eroding McKenna’s resistance.
The end arrived in the tenth round. A right hand, initially suspected as a low blow by McKenna but appearing legal on replays, sent the Irishman down for a third and final time. Although McKenna accepted the brief respite offered by the referee, it proved insufficient. Eubank unleashed a barrage of punches, leaving referee Mark Lyson with no option but to step in and halt the contest at 2:09 of the tenth round, preventing further punishment.
Eubank Eyes Benn and World Titles
With the TKO victory, the 31-year-old Eubank extended his unblemished record to 21-0 (9 KOs) and captured the IBF Inter-Continental welterweight strap, marking a significant step up in his career. Immediately after the win, Eubank, fueled by ambition, set his sights on a blockbuster domestic clash.
“I said to everyone I mean business this year, this is a warm up fight, I want Conor Benn next,” declared Eubank, his voice ringing with conviction. “This year I’m marching towards world titles, I want all the world champions… I can do Benn some damage.” His uncle, the legendary Chris Eubank Sr., echoed this sentiment, confidently predicting his son would step in to face Benn if his cousin, Chris Eubank Jr.’s, proposed fight with Benn were to falter.
McKenna's Future in Question After Grueling Defeat
For the 35-year-old Tyrone McKenna, who now slips to 24-6-1 (7 KOs), the defeat represents only the third stoppage loss in a 31-fight career that has seen him share the ring with top-level operators like Regis Prograis and Jack Catterall. While his ruggedness and determination were evident, Eubank’s superior skill set ultimately proved insurmountable. Having previously hinted at retirement, this latest setback may prompt McKenna to seriously consider his future in the sport.
Eubank's Star on the Rise
In contrast, Harlem Eubank’s future looks bright. Having delivered what many consider his career-best performance, he has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division. His dominant victory over a seasoned campaigner like McKenna serves as a powerful statement to the top fighters in the weight class. With his sights set on Conor Benn and ultimately world titles, Harlem Eubank is poised to headline more significant events and continue his ascent towards the pinnacle of the sport.
