It was always my dream to follow in the footsteps of Irish Boxing legends of the past, putting Irish boxing back on the map and marking my own name in the history books.

As a little boy in Tiger’s Bay, Belfast, I could never have imagined the career I would have - the fights, the fans, I owe it all to hard work, dedication, unbelievable support and the undying belief that I could make it to the top of my profession. I accumulated over 100 wins and quickly established my no-nonsense approach to boxing.

I feel extremely privileged to have gone on to claim the IBF super-bantamweight title at the Titanic Quarter in my home city of Belfast, in front of my home fans – a night I’ll never forget. Then becoming the first two-weight world champion in the history of Northern Ireland, with the WBA super-featherweight title, was just an incredible achievement that will forever fill me with pride.

The position I’ve got to in my boxing career has allowed me to help my local communities back home, and support some amazing charitable causes. I always aim to inspire in any way I can. I owe so much to boxing, and I’m not done yet. I’m gunning for the WBO super-featherweight title and knowing my fans will be with me all the way makes the journey all the more special.