Cork’s Callum Walsh delivers devastating first-round KO at Madison Square Garden

Callum Walsh, Ireland, and Dean Sutherland, Scotland, in action during their WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight title bout in Madison Square Gardens, New York at the Hollywood Fight Nights Irish event on Sunday March 16th 2025 Pic: Doug Minihane

Cork boxer Callum Walsh floored Scotland’s Dean Sutherland to secure an impressive first round knockout in the headliner at Madison Square Garden.

Topping the bill at the famed boxing venue’s downstairs arena, Walsh moved to 13-0 (11 KOs) with a huge left hand and devastating right hook that saw referee Ricky Gonzalez immediately end the fight.

The 24-year-old Cobh native demolished Sutherland 19-2 (7 KOs), his toughest opponent to date, in awesome fashion live on UFC Fight Pass. Dana White was seated ringside and congratulated Walsh on a statement victory.

“I was born for this,” Walsh declared post-fight. “I am destined to be the best fighter in the world. I am getting stronger and stronger and I am showing it each time. Looking forward to the future.” 

He continued: “I could fight again tonight if they want, or next week. Who knows? Dana White is in the building here and he has plans. Put any man in front of me and I will take him out.” 

Walsh continues to rise in the paid ranks under the tutelage of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach. He headlined a 3Arena card last September and promoter Tom Loeffler revealed that they have already targeted a Los Angeles card in July.

On the undercard, there was a disappointing first pro defeat for Dublin heavyweight Thomas Carty 10-1, (9KOs). Dajuan Calloway 11-3 (8 KOs) won by TKO after Carty collapsed with a knee injury in the second round and tried to limp through but was visibly struggling.

Carty ignited a large Irish contingent in the crowd when he walked out to the soundtrack of Put 'em Under Pressure. His US debut ended in devastation as he sat slumped in his corner with trainer Paschal Collins consoling him.

The highly anticipated Super Middleweight rematch between Tokyo Olympian Emmet Brennan and Kerry’s Kevin Cronin ended in 98-92, 98-92, 98-92 scorecard win for the Dubliner. Their previous bout in Dublin was a controversial classic with Cronin and UFC supremo White taking issue with the scorecard. This time Brennan was much more comfortable, moving to 6-0 (1 KO).