Kellie Harrington has won on her return to the ring by beating Maiva Hamadouche via unanimous decision at the European Elite Women’s Championship.
The Olympic gold medalist controlled the action from start to finish and didn't look uncomfortable at any stage in the fight. This level of superiority was reflected on the judge's scorecards, with all five judges awarding Harrington the win.
It was an excellent win for Harrington given Hamadouche's credentials. The 32-year-old from France is a former World Champion in the professional ranks and held the IBF world super-featherweight title between 2016 and 2021.
READ MORE: Savannah Marshall's power can help her overcome Claressa Shields in grudge fight
Hamadouche clearly had a game plan in mind that was designed to ruffle Harrington's feathers. But the Tokyo Olympics champion was always one step ahead of her onrushing challenger and easily landed heavy shots to the head and body.
By the midway point of the first round, the fight had to be stopped momentarily while a doctor examined Hamadouche who was bleeding from her forehead. The Frenchwoman carried on and continued to try and unsettle Kellie, but the Dubliner was completely at ease in the ring and even cracked a smile as the round drew to a close.
The left hook was available all fight for Harrington and time after time Hamadouche ran into a hard shot from the Irish southpaw. By the end of the second round, Harrington was already in complete control and Hamadouche needed a miracle to wind up the victor.
But Ireland's golden girl never gave her opponent the chance to build any momentum and skilfully evaded Hamadouche for the entirety of the third round.
Harrington is next in action on Saturday when she will face either a Ukrainian or Turkish opponent.
READ NEXT:
Roy Keane gives brilliantly typical Irish answer to Monday Night Football question
Ireland boss says there is no excuse for pro-IRA song celebrations
Irish cyclist Mia Griffin takes inspiration from Sam Bennett after getting Covid before Worlds
Damien Duff fumes over added time after late Shamrock Rovers goal beats Shelbourne
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
