Kevin Walsh stunned Michael Conlan with a split decision victory in Belfast, dealing a major blow to the Northern Irishman's world title aspirations. The 33-year-old American maintained his perfect 20-0 record while Conlan's fell to 20-4. Two judges scored the 10-round featherweight bout 96-94 for Walsh, with the third giving it 97-93 to Conlan.

Conlan had been eyeing a shot at WBC champion Bruce Carrington later this year, but Walsh immediately called out the champion after his career-best win. The fight never truly ignited despite some brief exchanges, with Conlan attempting to box rather than brawl while Walsh consistently feinted and goaded. A head clash in the second round opened a gash on Conlan's forehead, with another cut appearing by his right eye in the eighth.

This marked Conlan's second consecutive defeat following his loss to Jordan Gill in December 2023. At 34, with time running against him, this setback may represent his final attempt at securing another world title opportunity. For Walsh, the victory represents a significant breakthrough that propels him into the featherweight conversation and validates his decision to fight away from home in Brockton, Massachusetts.