Molly McCann kept her unbeaten boxing record intact with a dominant decision victory over Sylwia Doligala on cousin Katie Taylor's undercard at Croke Park, with long-time friend Paddy Pimblett watching ringside.
The former UFC star ended her UFC career in March 2025, but moved to boxing months later, scoring an impressive TKO win over Kate Radomska. McCann followed that with dominant victories over Ebonie Cotton, Beata Dudek and Ashleigh Johnson.
After learning of Taylor's farewell fight in Dublin, the Scouse scrapper wanted to be part of the occasion. The 36-year-old faced a step-up in competition in Polish-born, English-based Sylwia Doligala.
Career-best display in fifth fight
It was expected to be a tough night for 'Meatball', but McCann controlled most of the contest. With Pimblett watching, she appeared to find extra motivation to put on a show.
In only her fifth boxing fight, McCann performed as if she had been boxing professionally for much longer. From the start, she stayed patient, snapping away with the jab, and showed excellent footwork to avoid danger. In the opening minutes, Doligala struggled to get near her opponent and opted to swing for the bleachers.
McCann opens cuts but fails to get knockout
McCann's power was on full display as she opened up several cuts on Doligala's face midway through the contest. Doligala showed heart, taking heavy damage but continuing to press forward in search of an upset, yet could not find any rhythm.
In the end, McCann cruised to a comfortable decision victory, with all three judges in agreement: 80-72, 80-73, 79-73. Despite dominating and producing a career-best performance, McCann was disappointed not to get a knockout.
Hearn eyes championship fights
Speaking after the clash, she told DAZN: “I really wanted to get you the finish. I apologise, but she could take a dig, couldn't she? A year next week I've been boxing. I'm doing OK, I’m doing well, it was a big step up. I handled myself and fought well. Matchroom is the greatest company I’ve ever worked for. This is unbelievable.”
Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn praised McCann's display and believes she is ready for bigger fights. “We’re ready to move on to 10-round championship fights now. She has the platform because she deserves the platform.”
