Boxing Match Preview: Liam Smith (33-4-1, 20 KOs) vs. Aaron McKenna (19-0-0, 10 KOs)

The upcoming middleweight clash between Liam Smith (33-4-1, 20 KOs) and Aaron McKenna (19-0-0, 10 KOs) is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. This fight is part of the undercard for the highly anticipated Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn event, adding even more excitement to an already stacked night of boxing. The bout is scheduled for 10 rounds at the 160-pound weight limit and will be broadcast live on DAZN PPV.

Background and Stakes:

This fight represents a pivotal moment for both fighters. For Liam Smith, a former WBO super welterweight champion, it’s a chance to re-establish himself as a contender at middleweight after a long layoff following his loss to Chris Eubank Jr. in their rematch in 2023. At 36 years old, Smith is looking to prove he still belongs at the elite level and can compete with the sport’s rising stars.

For Aaron McKenna, this is the biggest test of his young career. The 25-year-old Irish prospect is undefeated and has been steadily climbing the ranks, but he has yet to face an opponent of Smith’s caliber. A victory over a seasoned veteran like Smith would catapult McKenna into the world title conversation and solidify his status as one of the most promising fighters in the division.

Fighter Profiles:

Liam Smith:

Age: 36
Record: 33 wins (20 by KO), 4 losses, 1 draw
Style: Smith is a pressure fighter with excellent body-punching ability and a high boxing IQ. He has faced some of the best in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez and Jaime Munguia, and his experience in high-stakes fights will be a significant advantage. Smith’s durability and ability to adapt make him a tough opponent for anyone.

Aaron McKenna:

Age: 25
Record: 19 wins (10 by KO), 0 losses
Style: McKenna is a technical boxer with a solid jab and good footwork. He has trained extensively in the United States, sparring with world-class fighters and honing his craft under top trainers. While he lacks experience at the elite level, his youth, speed, and hunger make him a dangerous opponent.

Key Factors and Matchup Analysis:

Experience vs. Youth:
Smith’s experience in world title fights and against top-tier opponents gives him a clear edge in terms of ring IQ and composure under pressure. However, McKenna’s youth and athleticism could allow him to outwork Smith, particularly in the later rounds.

Power and Durability:
Smith has proven knockout power and a granite chin, having gone the distance with some of the sport’s hardest hitters. McKenna, while not known for his power, has shown the ability to break down opponents with his volume and accuracy.

Ring Rust vs. Momentum:
Smith has not fought in over a year, which raises questions about potential ring rust. McKenna, on the other hand, has been active and is coming off a career-best win, giving him momentum heading into this fight.

FIGHT ODDS

Liam Smith + 115

Aaron McKenna – 150

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025