Eric Donovan claimed the Irish Featherweight title in Dublin on Saturday night, knocking down Stephen McAfee.
The crucial shot came in the fourth round, with the Athy southpaw declaring his intention to go Kiko Martinez's European title afterwards.
It marks the end of difficult period, which saw his 2018 blighted by finger and shoulder injuries. But at 33, time is short if Donovan wants to achieve his continental ambition.
To this end, the "Lilywhite Lightning" went straight for an Irish title fight after his extended camp with former Olympic silver medalist Kenneth Egan. And the risk paid off.
