Paddy Gallagher became the 10^th Irish fighter to turn professional so far this year.

The 2010 welterweight Commonwealth gold winner followed fellow Belfast bangers Tyrone McKeena, Ryan Burnett, Anthony Cacace, Conall Carmichael, Ray Ginley, Matt Wilton and Alfredo Meli into the paid ranks.

Gleann ABC club man, Gallagher is an Irish under 21 light welterweight champion, Irish Intermediate champ and an Ulster Elite runner up and some believe ditching the head guard and vest could see him pick up some pro titles.

Tyrone McKena also announced his decision to make boxing his profesion this week and revealed he will be traveling to America to sign a contract in June. Gallagher on the other hand as elected to base himself in Belfast and will be managed by John Rooney. The Belfast fighter goes into the pro game with the added experience of fighting for Mumbai Fighters in the WSB.