Paul McCullagh Jr: Boxer dies age 25 as father confirms heartbreaking cause of death
Boxer Paul McCullagh Jr has died age 25 after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone cancer.
The Northern Irish fighter passed away on New Year’s Day, his father has announced. An amateur heavyweight champion, McCullagh Jr had also won both of his professional bouts after turning pro in 2020.
Nicknamed the “Irish Drago” for his resemblance to the Rocky IV character, boxing ran deep in his family. His father, Paul McCullagh Sr, was a champion amateur boxer, as was his late grandfather, who went on to coach fighters including Barry McGuigan and current IBF welterweight champion Anthony Cacace.
Speaking to Irish News, McCullagh Sr said: “He was my dream son, a kid a father couldn't be more proud of. Anyone I spoke to always said that is one lad any parent would be proud to have and by the grace of God he has been my son for a short time.
“[When he was diagnosed] he just turned to me and said ‘don't you worry Daddy it's in the hands of God’. A warrior to the end.”
McCullagh Sr added that his son was a “true gent” and said he would miss him “every second of every day”.
McCullagh Jr represented both Ulster and Ireland internationally. He won his first title in 2012, claimed the Ulster Elite heavyweight title in 2019, and later represented Ireland in a dual nations contest against the Netherlands.
As a professional, he defeated Anthony Woolery on his debut in 2020 and Ben Thomas the following year.
Posting on X, former world champion Carl Frampton said: “Heartbreaking to hear the terrible news about the very talented Paul Jnr. Deepest sympathies to his Dad, Paul and the rest of his family and friends.”
A spokesperson for the Irish Athletic Boxing Association said: “IABA is saddened by the passing of boxer, 25-year-old Paul McCullagh Junior.
“A member of clubs including St. John Bosco Belfast and his family's McCullagh's ABC, Paul won his first title in 2012, and an Ulster Elite heavyweight title in 2019. In the same year Paul represented Ulster High Performance against New York and represented Ireland in a dual nations international against the Netherlands.
“Paul turned pro after his 2019 success, and recorded a number of wins. Paul's grandfather and father were both champion amateur boxers, the latter boxing out of Immaculata BC. Paul's grandfather was a highly regarded pro and amateur coach and his father is a pro referee.
“IABA extends deepest condolences to Paul's family, club and loved ones.”