Irish middleweight Darren Sutherland made light work of Georgi Iliev as he began his professional career in impressive fashion at the Dublin City University.
The Olympic bronze medallist stopped his Bulgarian opponent with just 16 seconds left in the first round, after connecting with a series of punishing shots to the body and head.
Roared on at his own university, Sutherland opened up a cut on Iliev's right cheek with a sweeping early right hand and used his powerful jab to work himself back within range.
Iliev, who knocked out Keith Cresham on his last visit to Ireland in July, was left shuddering again as Sutherland connected with a left cross and a stinging right hand to the ribs.
Iliev used his experience to weather that particular storm but another powerful right hand to the temple from Sutherland forced the referee to call a halt to proceedings.
Obviously eager for more rounds, the Dubliner said afterwards: ‘I enjoyed it.
‘I was really disappointed I didn't get a few more rounds. I was trying to make it last because I knew I had him early on.
‘I threw a few silly jabs but I'm only learning and I'm just happy to get a successful pro debut under my belt. There'll be tougher fights down the line.
‘My objective is to improve with every fight and Frank (Maloney) will step up the opposition as I move on.’
Promoter Maloney, who said Sutherland will fight again in March on the Jamie Moore undercard, added: ‘I think we've found a real superstar in Darren. This is just the start of a long journey for us.’
