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Tested Aaron McKenna hungry for further step-ups following hard Hollywood fight


Tests are usually the bane of teenagers’ lives but Aaron McKenna [5(3)-0] claims he “thoroughly enjoyed” answering the questions poised by Rolando Mendivil.

The Mexican lived up to his step up billing and gave the 19-year-old Monaghan welter the kind of fight that will stand him in good stead moving forward.

McKenna has adapted to the pro ranks expertly since turning over back in September of last year. Despite his baby face looks and tender years, he has looked powerful and destructive securing three straight stoppage wins ahead the fight in Hollywood earlier this month.

The more experienced Mendivil was brought in to provide the Golden Boy prospect with a test and, while he didn’t cause any major trouble, he did manage to asks some questions of the Sheer Sports-managed youngster who won the four-rounder on points.

Speaking to Irish-Boxing.com McKenna revealed he enjoyed the step up and solving the problems his foe posed.

“I learned a lot from the fight. He made me work hard throughout the contest which I thoroughly enjoyed.”

“It was a great learning fight at the right time. I could see that I was getting a lot stronger as the fight went on. I learned that my fitness will be a key as we transcend into the longer rounds,” said McKenna before claiming he felt a stoppage was coming.

“It was great to be able to let go with plenty of strong punches. To his credit he took some good solid shots but I don’t think he would have lasted another round.”

“I knew before I went into the fight that he was a descent opponent. Anyone that has 10 wins out of 14 has to be fairly good but I was ready for the challenge.”

McKenna is hoping for another step up before the year is out, not just in terms of opponents but in terms of rounds.

Following five fours, the Courage Tshabalala-trained fighter is keen for progression – especially considering his goal of being a world champion at the age of 21.

“My team are planning that I finish of the year having seven fights under my belt. We also want to have a six rounder before the year is out,” revealed the Smithborough fighter who has also teased that a fight in Ireland may be on the cad.

Next up, however, looks to be a fight in America in September.

Photo Credit: Valentin Romero

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