Tyrone McCullagh looking to get in the mix at world level

‘White Chocolate’ outclassed the previously-undefeated Josh Kelly in the same city back in October to claim the title and now heads for Ulster Hall to fight live on iFL TV.

While Derry’s McCullagh is proud of his achievements to date, he’s determined to reach the very top of the sport under new trainer Danny Vaughan.

McCullagh said: “I know I’ll be world level before the end of the year. It’s only a matter of time.

“I’ve worked hard to get where I am now but I know I’ve got the talent to go up again in level.

“I was delighted to win the WBO European title but in boxing, you always want more.

“When I started off, I thought I’d be happy to win one national title but once I got there, nothing was ever enough.

“Now I want bigger and better titles and the obvious ceiling to hit is world level.

“There’s always room for improvement.

“My defence looks good against the likes of Josh Kennedy but I know I need to improve on areas for when I move up to world level – both defence-wise and attack-wise.

“I need to start hurting people a bit more and we’re working hard on my offensive options behind the scenes as well.”

And Belfast favourite Tyrone McKenna is enthusiastic over the prospect of showing off his development at the Ulster Hall.

McKenna said: “I’ve been working very hard with Danny Vaughan in the gym. You’ll see big improvements in my next fight and I can’t wait.

“I’m an entertainer and boxing is an entertainment business. If you aren’t entertaining then you’re doing it wrong. I always want to please my fans.

The bill also sees Conrad Cummings and Luke Keeler rematch for the WBO European middleweight crown and the likes of Gary Cully and Steven Ward star on the undercard.