Kellie Harrington has paid tribute to her opponent Zara Breslin days after defeating her in a national final.
With the win, Harrington took home a remarkable 10th elite National title after defeating Breslin in the 60kg final.
The Olympic Gold medalist from 2020 dominated from start to finish and took home a convincing win on all five judges scorecards.
READ MORE: Kellie Harrington wins 10th elite National Championship, while Amy Broadhurst suffers shock defeat
Despite the comfortable victory, Harrington has taken to social media to show respect for her opponent. In an Instagram post, the reigning European champion showers Breslin with praised and predicts big things from the youngster.
Harrington's post reads: "10th National Title ( I feel Old ). Here is a little bit about this lady here who I boxed @zarabreslin123.
"So a good few years ago I was at the Esker Female boxing tournament in Dublin, Ireland and I remember standing outside the ring watching this lady here and saying to everyone around the ring that I really liked her style, and that she is going to be very good.
"And I was hoping we would never actually cross paths.
"But years later the national championships come around and I get a bye into the final and face the winner of the semi final which turns out to be Zara.
"So anyways, I just want to wish @zarabreslin123 all the best in her boxing career, I know if she knuckles down again she can achieve anything she works for."
Remarkably, Saturday night's contest was Harrington's first fight on Irish soil since winning gold in Tokyo in the Summer of 2021.
Regardless, a puts the Dubliner in fine fettle as preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris ramp up over the coming months.
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