Zoe McCaughran headlines Belfast June show in title defence

Reigning champion Zoe McCaughran will step into familiar territory as she headlines the bill once again when she defends her IIBU title against Belfast’s Carly McNaul on June 20 at the Devenish Complex.

McCaughran is no stranger to main event pressure, having topped the bill in Liverpool in her previous outing, where she defeated the home favourite in dominant fashion. She now returns to Belfast for the first defence of the IIBU title she won at the iconic Ulster Hall, carrying confidence, experience, and strong momentum into this championship clash.

Standing opposite her will be Carly McNaul from Belfast, a former two-time Commonwealth Games silver medalist and highly decorated amateur, making this a significant test for the champion. McCaughran is fully aware of the challenge ahead on paper but embraces it wholeheartedly.

“I know it’s going to be no easy task, but I love the challenge and really given her past record the pressure is on her i feel,” McCaughran said. “These are the fights that bring the best out of you and the type i want to be in.”

Her coach, Iain Mahood, believes the timing of the bout and the championship distance will suit his fighter.

“Longer rounds benefit Zoe,” he said. “I see her timing, composure, and work rate really come into play as this fight develops. With the momentum she has behind her right now, I believe she comes through this okay.”

McCaughran trains out of the renowned Evolution Boxing Club in Carrickfergus, a gym well known for producing well rounded champions at every level. Away from the spotlight of fight night, McCaughran balances elite level boxing with her role as a classroom assistant at Sunnylands Primary School, highlighting the commitment she brings to both her professional and personal life.

With the bout confirmed as the main event and tickets selling fast and her parnter Jack Quinn also on the bill, anticipation continues to build for a major night of championship boxing in Belfast.

June 20 at the Devenish promises to be a standout event as Zoe McCaughran looks to make a successful first defence of her IIBU title on home soil.