Tributes have been paid to Belfast boxer Paul McCullagh Jr, who died aged 25 after a short illness.
As an amateur, McCullagh was the 2019 Ulster Elite Heavyweight Champion and has won two fights in his career.
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The McCullagh family is synonymous with boxing in Belfast, with his father and grandfather both amateur boxing champions.
McCalla’s grandfather Paul, who died in 2018, was a highly regarded coach to the likes of Barry McGuigan, Hugh Russell and current IBF welterweight champion Anthony Kakas, while his father, also known as Paul, was a veteran referee.
McCullagh Jr, a member of St John Bosco Belfast and his family’s McCullagh ABC, won his first title in 2012.
After a successful run in the Ulster Classic in 2019, he represented Ulster and Ireland on the international stage before turning professional, beating Anthony Woolery on his debut in 2020 and Ben Thomas the following year.
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Amateur Boxing Ireland said it “extends its deepest condolences to Paul’s family, club and loved ones”.
Olympic bronze medalist Aidan Walsh said on social media he would “never forget the memories we had together”.
St Paul’s Antrim broadcaster said Little Cara was a “credit” to the sport.
“Paul’s achievements and his proud boxing heritage have seen him bring honor to the Irish boxing community,” it posted on social media.
“Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved him at this very difficult time.”
