‘Ireland has a new superstar’ - Limerick’s Donovan delivers statement performance

Limerick’s Paddy Donovan had a fourth round TKO against Danny Ball

Sat, 25 Nov, 2023 - 21:44

Maurice Brosnan

Limerick’s Paddy Donovan secured the WBA Continental Welterweight Title with a fourth round TKO against Danny Ball in a statement performance at the 3Arena.

On the Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron undercard, the Andy Lee-trained southpaw floored Ball with a huge left hook in the fourth round and sent him to the canvas once more with a thunderous body shot moments later.

In between there was a prolonged onslaught on the ropes. The Englishman’s corner reached for the towel and while Ball initially protested that call, it was undeniably the right one.

Impressive is an understatement!

😱 @PaddyDonovan23 put on a show on his way to a big win in Dublin.#CameronTaylor2 pic.twitter.com/h9yZ7VVC83
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) November 25, 2023

It was a step up for the 24-year-old against an opponent who arrived with a record of 13-1-1, 6 KOs.

“Superstars are made on the big stage and I tell you what, Ireland has got a new superstar in Paddy Donovan,” Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn declared post-fight.

“You have the iconic figures like Katie Taylor, what a massive fight coming up for Gary Cully next, but you need those young stars coming through. He is flashy. He is skilful. He is a good-looking fella. If he can stay dedicated to the sport with Andy Lee, honestly it is all in front of him. The road is right there to walk down.”

Donovan, who represented Ireland at the 2016 World Youth Championships, moves to 12-0 after the victory. He dedicated the title to Pieta House.

Hearn continued: “Keep pushing us for dates and opportunities. He is a champion now, moving to champion fights. Everybody loved seeing that. Explosive power.”

Earlier, Irish Olympian Emmet Brennan delighted his supporters by securing his first title in his second pro outing with a TKO triumph over Limerick’s Jamie Morrissey. The Dubliner was well on top by the time the towel was thrown in the final minute.