Joe McGrail Knocks Out Aaron Hayden; Buttigieg Clash Imminent?
In a super bantamweight showdown, Joe McGrail (13-0, 6KO) picked up two very significant titles by stopping Aaron Hayden (10-1, 2KO). With this victory, he could look to fight the Commonwealth and WBC International titlist, Tyrone Buttigieg (12-0, 3KO).
McGrail landed fast combinations and sharp counters that kept Hayden off balance from the start of the bout. In round five, the Brit unleashed a flurry of punches against an over-aggressive Hayden. After landing a picture-perfect left hook to the body, he celebrated the victory as the referee counted to ten for the stoppage.
This victory is only the first step toward world level. When looking at what’s next, the undefeated fighter could challenge Buttigieg, who is ranked #15 by the WBO. If he wins the fight, that would make him the king of the division in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, McGrail would receive a significant boost in the rankings.
Buttigieg is coming off a close split decision win over Saurabh Kumar back on March 28. The WBC titlist had to get up off the canvas in the final round. Against a hard-punching opponent like McGrail, he will need to raise his game to another level.
After only fighting once in 2025, McGrail is poised to make some noise in 2026.
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