Belfast's Caoimhin Agyarko is set to challenge Josh Kelly for the IBF light-middleweight title, aspiring to become Ireland's first black professional champion.
New Delhi, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: "I will become Ireland's first black world champion."
From early in Caoimhin Agyarko's career, the above was pinned to the top of his X account, and while the profile is no more, the objective remains. Agyarko, a professional boxer from Belfast, is on the brink of making history as he prepares to face IBF light-middleweight champion Josh Kelly in Saudi Arabia. This bout represents not only a significant milestone in Agyarko's career but also a pivotal moment in the broader context of in Ireland.
The fight is scheduled for Saturday and is part of the undercard for Anthony Joshua's return to the ring against Kristian Prenga in Jeddah. This high-profile event adds to the stakes of Agyarko's match, as he seeks to carve out his legacy in a that has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly in the UK and Ireland.
In 2020, another Belfast native, Tommy McCarthy, made history by becoming Ireland's first black European champion with his victory over Bilal Laggoune. However, Agyarko aims to break further ground by becoming the first black Irish world champion. His ambition is deeply rooted in his identity and background, and he views this opportunity as a chance to inspire future generations of fighters.
"I'm 30 this year, started at seven years old, and have had the dream of becoming the first black Irish world champion," Agyarko tells BBC NI. He acknowledges that he has already made history by being the first black Irishman to fight for a world title, but his aspirations extend beyond this achievement. "My plan is to become the first black Irish world champion and lead the way for the next generation of fighters and people from different backgrounds," he states.
Caoimhin Agyarko was born in London to an Irish mother and a Ghanaian father. He spent his formative years in England before moving to the Turf Lodge area of west Belfast at the age of seven. It was here that his passion for was ignited at the Holy Trinity Club, a well-respected establishment known for nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community among its members.
As an amateur, Agyarko achieved considerable success, winning both Irish and Ulster honors. He transitioned to the professional ranks in 2018 and quickly racked up a series of victories, showcasing his skills and determination. However, his progress was interrupted by injury, which sidelined him and delayed his ascent in the .
Reflecting on his journey, Agyarko remarks, "It's been 22 years of hard work, dedication, setbacks, ups and downs, disappointments and big wins. But none of that matters - it's all on Saturday and this is everything I've dreamt of since I was a kid." His humble beginnings and the challenges he faced have shaped his character and resolve, motivating him to leave a legacy for future generations.
Agyarko's career has not been without its obstacles. A victory over Troy Williamson in 2023 was expected to propel him into bigger fights, but instead, it led to a frustrating year with limited opportunities. Quick victories in spring 2025, however, reignited his momentum, culminating in a split decision win over Ishmael Davis, where he demonstrated resilience by overcoming adversity in the ring.
In April, Agyarko was set to participate in a final eliminator against Brandon Adams in Las Vegas, but the match was abruptly canceled when Adams collapsed. Despite the IBF ordering another final eliminator against former champion Bakhram Murtazaliev, Agyarko's team negotiated a fight with Kelly, leading to this historic title bout.
Beyond the ring, Agyarko has faced significant personal challenges. In May 2017, at the age of 20, he survived a life-threatening attack in Belfast city center, where he was slashed on the face and required emergency surgery. This traumatic experience reinforced his resilience and determination. "Things have happened for a reason, in and out of the ring: setbacks after setbacks in and in life," Agyarko reflects. "I'm used to this, and the one thing I've never let any of it do was break me." His mindset has evolved to focus on moving forward rather than dwelling on past hardships.
Although Agyarko has reached the world stage, he remains grounded and grateful for the support he has received from his roots. The Holy Trinity Club has played a pivotal role in his development as both a fighter and an individual. "[It's] the place that has given me everything and the reason why I am where I am in life," Agyarko acknowledges, emphasizing the club's significance in his journey.
His coach, Michael Hawkins Jr., and former world title challenger Stephen Smith will accompany Agyarko to Saudi Arabia, with Michael Hawkins Sr. also providing guidance. The Holy Trinity club boasts a rich history of producing successful fighters, including two-time super-featherweight world champion Anthony Cacace and former welterweight world champion Lewis Crocker. Cacace's victory on a heavyweight undercard in Saudi Arabia in 2024 serves as an inspiration for Agyarko, who sees parallels in their journeys.
Agyarko notes the significance of competing for an IBF title, referencing other successful fighters from the club, such as Carl Frampton and Ryan Burnett, who also won their first world titles with the IBF. "This is now my time," Agyarko asserts, indicating his belief in the importance of this moment for his career.
Agyarko is fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead against Josh Kelly. The 32-year-old Kelly has represented Team GB at the 2016 Rio Olympics and boasts an impressive professional record of 18 wins, one loss, and one draw. In his title-winning fight against Bakhram Murtazaliev, Kelly showcased his explosive power and ability to recover from adversity, knocking the Russian down in the fourth round before facing a late rally.
Agyarko emphasizes the importance of explosiveness and combination punching in his strategy for the fight. "It's not just fitness, but explosiveness when I'm putting my punches together," he explains. He believes that Kelly may struggle to deal with his speed and power, and he is determined to let his hands go in the ring. "Some have said we have similar styles in that we are both reactive fighters, that I can use my head movement and footwork to get me out of trouble. But I'm not going to play that game with him. I'm going to steamroll him and I'm looking forward to it," Agyarko declares with confidence.
Agyarko's upcoming fight against Josh Kelly is not just a personal milestone; it represents a significant moment in history, particularly for the Irish community. His ambition to become the first black Irish world champion resonates deeply within the context of a that has seen increasing diversity in recent years. Agyarko's journey, marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to inspiring future generations, has positioned him as a role model for aspiring athletes, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. As he steps into the ring on Saturday, the eyes of many will be on him, not only for the title he seeks but for the legacy he aims to build.
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