Aaron McKenna didn’t lack confidence after capturing the vacant IBF middleweight title Saturday night in Dublin.
“I’m the best middleweight in the world!”
That’s a bold declaration after an impressive 12-round victory over Etinosa Oliha, because winning the IBF belt doesn’t establish McKenna as the top fighter at 160 pounds. There are several names in the division he would need to beat before that claim becomes convincing.
Carlos Adames remains one of the division’s toughest established champions. Yoenli Hernandez has been rapidly moving toward a title opportunity and has made the same claim about being the world’s best middleweight. Erislandy Lara remains a difficult stylistic test despite his age, while Tim Tszyu’s move into the division brings another proven fighter into the mix.
McKenna certainly looked the part against Oliha. His jab controlled the fight, his movement kept Oliha from establishing consistent pressure, and he remained composed after suffering a cut late.
The question is what happens when the opposition gets better.
Oliha came to Dublin with a 22-0 record, but he lacked the speed and variety needed to disrupt McKenna. Adames would bring considerably more pressure and power. Hernandez presents a different challenge with his Cuban amateur background and physical tools. Tszyu would test McKenna’s ability to deal with sustained pressure from a much more accomplished offensive fighter.
McKenna has the belt now. If he wants the distinction he claimed Saturday night, there are plenty of middleweights available to help him prove it.
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Last Updated on 2026/08/08 at 7:05 PM
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