Donovan is coming off a 12-round majority decision over Karen Chukhadzhian in Germany last May. He scored two knockdowns and won 115-111 and 114-112, with the third judge producing a 113-113 card.
Chukhadzhian is in another league from McKenna. Jaron Ennis discovered that during their two meetings, particularly the first in January 2023. The Ukrainian’s movement, defensive ability and awkward counterpunching prevented Ennis from putting on a dominant performance many anticipated.
Still, Donovan is not infallible. Lewis Crocker beat him in consecutive fights in 2025. He was disqualified for hitting after the bell in their first encounter before losing a split decision in the rematch.
His win over Chukhadzhian returned him to the top of the IBF rankings, but it remains difficult to know which version of Donovan will show up at Croke Park. The smooth southpaw who controlled much of the Chukhadzhian fight should handle McKenna without much trouble. The fighter who lost his discipline against Crocker would give McKenna a chance.
“Some may say it’s a risky fight for me as once again being ranked No. 1 by the IBF, but I’m a hungry fighter and I want to stay active. Right now, Paro hasn’t decided what’s next for him. While I wait on Paro’s decision, I want to keep active and fighting Tyrone McKenna in front of 80,000 fans sounds splendid,” Donovan said.
McKenna normally relies on activity and toughness rather than power. If he plants his feet and commits to his punches, he may have a chance of pulling off the upset. Donovan has already shown that his composure can desert him when he’s getting hit hard in fights.
This is less a courageous gamble than a test Donovan must pass. Beating McKenna will not prove he is ready for Paro, but losing to him would confirm that he is not.
The Croke Park card begins at 4:00 p.m. local time, or 11:00 a.m. ET. DAZN will stream the event worldwide. Katie Taylor faces Flora Pili in the main event.
