Colm Murphy makes history with Commonwealth Title win at Theatre at The Mill

Colm "The Posh Boy" Murphy battled it out against Tanzanian boxer, Saleh Kassim to secure the Commonwealth Featherweight Title

Theatre at The Mill has etched its name into British boxing history after hosting its first-ever championship contest, with Colm “The Posh Boy” Murphy claiming the Commonwealth Featherweight Title on a landmark night in Newtownabbey.

The sell-out event, staged on Saturday 31 January 2026, marked another major milestone for the venue, which has rapidly built a reputation as an unconventional but compelling setting for elite professional sport.

Branded ‘Theatre of Dreams’, the night followed the success of ‘Thriller at The Mill’ in November 2025 and delivered a packed house, high drama and a title-winning performance on home soil.

Colm "The Posh Boy" Murphy battling it out against Tanzanian boxer, Saleh Kassim

South Belfast’s unbeaten Murphy rose to the occasion, defeating Tanzanian champion Saleh Kassim Abdalla to secure the vacant Commonwealth Featherweight Title. The victory extends Murphy’s flawless professional record to 16-0 and represents the biggest triumph of his career to date.

Beyond the belts and accolades, the win carries global significance. Murphy’s Commonwealth success propels him into the top 15 of the world rankings across all four major governing bodies, confirming his status as one of Ireland’s leading boxing talents and a serious contender on the international stage.

Fighting in front of a home crowd, Murphy delivered under intense pressure, with supporters witnessing a career-defining moment in an intimate setting rarely associated with championship boxing.

Attention now turns to what lies ahead. Murphy’s win paves the way for a highly anticipated all-Ireland showdown with Dublin’s Jono Carroll, scheduled for March at the 3Arena.

The bout will see the pair contest the vacant IBO World Super Featherweight Championship, placing Murphy firmly on the path towards world title recognition.

Carnmoney legend, Kyle Smith kept supporters entertained in fight against Islington fighter Jordan Grannum at Theatre at The Mill

The co-main event saw Carnmoney favourite Kyle Smith make a successful return to Theatre at The Mill, continuing to build momentum after previously announcing himself at the venue with a first-round stoppage victory earlier in the year.

His performance further underlined the depth of local talent emerging from Northern Ireland’s boxing scene.

The undercard also showcased strong displays from across the region, with impressive performances by Hijjah McMahon of Belfast, Gerard Hughes of Ballycastle, and Ballymena’s Carlos Pereira, reinforcing the strength of grassroots and professional boxing in the area.

Hijjah McMahon put on a performance for the local crowd at Theatre at The Mill, winning on points after six rounds.

Ballycastle's own Gerard Hughes wins on points against scouser, Ricky Starkey.

Theatre at The Mill extended its thanks to MHD Promotions, Bet McLean and R Kings Competitions for their continued partnership, as well as the fighters, officials and supporters who helped deliver another standout event.

With championship boxing now firmly woven into its story, Theatre at The Mill looks ahead to hosting further major sporting and live events in the months to come.

For more upcoming events, visit theatreatthemill.com.