Anthony Cacace wins world super featherweight title in victory over James Dickens in Dublin

Belfast's Anthony Cacace became a two-weight world champion as he defeated James “Jazza” Dickens in the 3Arena to win the world super featherweight title.

“The Apache” claimed the WBA super featherweight crown in a tense affair, where both fighters were cautious of the other’s power through much of the fight.

Cacace won a gruelling battle on all three scorecards, 115-113 116-113 116-112, to etch his name into history.

Rounds one and two were quiet, with Cacace trying to impose his height and range advantage, while Dickens looked to close the distance.

The contest opened up in the third, as a frustrated Cacace looked to press the action by switching to a southpaw stance.

The rounds were tight and shared going into the final stretch, but it was clear that both fighters agreed that Cacace was leading.

The Belfast man was on the back foot throughout the last three minutes, while Dickens went in search of a knockout.

At the age of 37, Cacace has enjoyed huge success late in his career, having previously won the IBF title against Wales’ Joe Cordina, and defeating Josh Warrington and Leigh Wood.

In a great night for Irish boxing, Pierce O’Leary (19-0) defeated former British champion Maxi Hughes (29-9-2) by fifth round stoppage in their IBO super lightweight title fight.

Dublin’s Jono Carroll (26-3-1) claimed the IBO world super featherweight title against Belfast’s Colm Murphy by split decision in a close contest on the undercard.