John Paul Hale Ready to Launch Professional Career with Michael Conlan's Support
John Paul Hale from Belfast believes now is the right moment to move into professional boxing, guided by former pro Michael Conlan. Having built a strong amateur record, Hale is eager to take on new challenges in the paid ranks.
Amateur Highlights and Final Bout Frustrations
Hale, who was crowned Irish Elite champion in 2021 and secured six Ulster titles, represented Northern Ireland at both the 2022 and 2026 Commonwealth Games. At 25 years old, he feels he has achieved all he can as an amateur and that it is time to switch focus.
His last amateur fight, unfortunately, ended in disappointment. Hale lost early at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow against England’s Patris Mughalzai. The match saw controversial officiating, with Hale penalized two points while his opponent received only one. This left Hale visibly frustrated, demonstrated by a defiant gesture directed at the officials—the same sign Conlan used back in Rio 2016 after his own controversial loss.
"It’s strange because I wasn’t upset with myself this time," Hale told BBC Sport NI. "I knew how hard I’d worked and I had beaten that opponent before. That day, the referee seemed to limit my chances by frequently stopping the action."
Continued Concerns Over Amateur Judging
Despite changes in boxing’s governing bodies—from AIBA to World Boxing—Hale feels some judging issues persist. He noted a disconnect between what judges reward and fighters’ styles, saying aggressive boxers should get favorable calls but often do not. He cited Jude Gallagher’s experience at the Commonwealth Games as another example of questionable decisions affecting fighters.
Turning to the Pros with Conlan’s Guidance
Though Hale once considered continuing as an amateur to target the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, he decided against it, wanting no regrets from his amateur career. Now working with Michael Conlan, a former amateur world champion and twice a professional world title challenger, Hale feels confident stepping into the pro scene.
"Having someone like Conlan is fantastic because he really understands professional boxing," Hale said. "His knowledge is a big boost for me going forward."
Hale plans to compete initially at welterweight and will keep training at Star ABC in north Belfast, where he grew up. His professional debut is set for 27 November at The Devenish, a Belfast venue known for launching notable careers including world super-featherweight champion Anthony Cacace and former title contender James Tennyson.
"If I perform well, bigger venues and bigger nights will come," Hale remarked. "I prefer starting small and building myself up. Jumping too high too fast can be overwhelming. Some top pros have fought on smaller shows, so it’s all part of the process."
He also expects many familiar faces from his amateur days to attend his first professional fight, promising an exciting night for him and his supporters.
Boxing Schedule and Results 2026
- Date: 27 November 2026
- Event: John Paul Hale’s Professional Debut
- Venue: The Devenish, Belfast
