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Brockton Today
By the People, for the People
American Kevin Walsh Upsets Ireland's Michael Conlan in Split Decision
Conlan announces retirement after heartbreaking loss in Belfast
Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:06am
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In a shocking upset, undefeated American boxer Kevin Walsh defeated Ireland's Michael Conlan by split decision to claim the WBC International featherweight title at the SSE Arena in Belfast. The 10-round bout was Conlan's first fight in 16 months, and he announced his retirement from boxing immediately after the loss, citing his inability to capture a world title despite reaching "some serious highs" in his career.
Why it matters
Conlan was a two-time Olympian and former IBF world title challenger, making him one of Ireland's most beloved and accomplished boxers. His upset loss to the previously unheralded Walsh ends any realistic hopes of Conlan securing a third world title shot, marking the end of a glittering career.
The details
The fight was cagey from the start, with both men trading blows. Conlan suffered two nasty cuts, one above his right eye and another on his forehead from a head clash in the second round. While Conlan relied on his movement and jab, Walsh proved the aggressor, landing clean shots that swayed the judges in the later rounds. The scores were 96-94, 96-94 for Walsh and 97-93 for Conlan.
- The bout took place on Friday night at the SSE Arena in Belfast.
- Conlan had returned to the ring after a 16-month layoff.
The players
Kevin Walsh
A 33-year-old undefeated American boxer from Brockton, Massachusetts who pulled off the upset victory over Michael Conlan to claim the WBC International featherweight title.
Michael Conlan
A 34-year-old Irish boxer from Belfast, a two-time Olympian and former IBF world title challenger, who announced his retirement from boxing after the loss.
What they’re saying
“I was very confident I got the job done. It was definitely a close fight. Shout out to Mick Conlan – I've always been a fan of his, but he couldn't figure me out. He's been a hell of a fighter, but his time's up. 'Shu Shu' Carrington, where you at? This is my time.”
— Kevin Walsh, New WBC International Featherweight Champion
“It's the end of the road for me. I've reached some serious highs, but I've never claimed a world belt. Now I want to spend more time with my family while exiting with my health intact.”
— Michael Conlan
What’s next
Walsh has openly called out WBC champion Bruce Carrington, seeking a shot at the world title after his upset victory.
The takeaway
Conlan's retirement marks the end of an era for one of Ireland's most beloved and accomplished boxers, while Walsh's surprise win propels him into the conversation as boxing's latest rising force, setting up a potential world title showdown.
