Irish prospects both score Bolton wins

Paul Ryan and Paul McCullagh both picked up points win in Bolton tonight.

The duo were in action on a #MTKFightNight card at the Bolton Whites Hotel and were given a hard evening’s work but emerged victorious

Light heavyweight McCullagh had his chin checked early by Woolery but took the huge right hand well and methodically worked his way through the four rounds in Bolton, targetting the body well.

The win sees McCullagh, now training back in his home city of Belfast, improve to 2(1)-0.

Light middleweight debutant Ryan was also given a tough test by Hughes. The Dublin southpaw showed a nice patient style but took some silly shots from the rough and busy English fighter that left the rounds up for decision.

Ryan took a rollicking from his corner at the end of the third, being told that he was in danger of blowing his debut and the youngster responded with a strong finish, with one big volley of punches wowing especially.

It was perhaps crucial, too, with Ryan being awarded the bout on a razor-thin 39-38 verdict which sees him start his pro ledger off at 1(0)-0.