Belfast Boxer Becomes Two-Time Champion at 37

At 37 years old, when many boxers have already hung up their gloves, Anthony Cacace just won his second world championship.

The Belfast boxer defeated defending champion Jazza Dickens by unanimous decision in Dublin on Saturday night, claiming the WBA super-featherweight belt. All three judges scored the fight in Cacace's favor, with cards reading 115-113, 116-112, and 116-113.

Cacace admitted the fight wasn't easy. Dickens, a southpaw from Liverpool, brought an awkward style that made him difficult to hit cleanly throughout all 12 rounds.

"That showed you what I can do on a poor night at the office and still win a world title," Cacace told reporters after the bout. Despite calling it an off night, his skill and experience carried him to victory.

The win came nine months after Cacace's impressive victory over Leigh Wood, which earned him his first world title. Now he's back on top again, this time with the WBA belt around his waist.

Why This Inspires

Cacace's story breaks the stereotype that boxing belongs only to the young. While most champions in the lighter weight classes peak in their late 20s or early 30s, he's showing that dedication and skill can triumph over the calendar.

His journey to this moment took years of rebuilding. Promoter Frank Warren praised Cacace for getting himself back together over the last few years and finally showing what he's truly capable of.

The fighter isn't planning to slow down either. "I'm looking at bigger names now," Cacace declared. "I want to unify the division. I want Emanuel Navarrete next."

Warren promised to deliver those bigger fights, pledging to bring major unification bouts to Ireland where Cacace can fight in front of his home crowd. "This is his home and this is where we are going to make fights happen for him," Warren said.

For a 37-year-old who many might have counted out, Cacace is proving his best chapters are still being written.