Cacace Claims WBA Title in Dublin, O’Leary Shines on Home Turf
Dublin, Ireland – Anthony Cacace is a two-time world champion after securing a unanimous decision victory over Jazza Dickens at the 3Arena in Dublin on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The Belfast fighter won the WBA super-featherweight title with scores of 115-113, 116-112, and 116-113. In the chief-support bout, local favorite Pierce O’Leary earned a career-best stoppage win over Maxi Hughes, retiring him on his stool before the sixth round. Cacace improved to 25-1 (9 KOs) whereas Dickens fell to 36-6 (15 KOs).
Anthony Cacace Claims WBA Super-Featherweight Title in Dublin Thriller
Ireland’s Anthony Cacace has etched his name into boxing history, securing a unanimous decision victory over James ‘Jazza’ Dickens at the sold-out 3Arena in Dublin on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
A Close Contest Decided by the Judges
Following twelve rounds of strategic maneuvering, the judges’ scorecards favored Cacace with scores of 115-113, 116-112, and 116-113, crowning him the new WBA super-featherweight champion.
Cacace’s Journey to a Second World Title
The 37-year-old Cacace, hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, previously held the IBF title before strategically vacating it to pursue more lucrative opportunities against prominent British opponents.
Previously, Cacace stopped Joe Cordina to win the IBF belt in 2024, and then beat former world champions Josh Warrington and Leigh Wood.
Dickens’ Disappointment and Resilient Career
James Dickens, the defending champion from Liverpool, England, expressed disappointment with the outcome, acknowledging a challenging night in the ring.
Dickens’ record now stands at 36-6 (15 KOs), following a bout characterized by its difficulty to score round-by-round.
Dickens won the WBA interim title when he knocked out Albert Batyrgaziev in Round 4 last July.
O’Leary Shines on the Undercard with Stunning Stoppage
In a compelling undercard bout, Dublin native Pierce O’Leary delivered a career-defining performance, earning a fifth-round stoppage victory over Maxi Hughes.
O’Leary’s dominant display solidified his position as a rising star in the boxing world, with many anticipating a future headline bout at The Point.
O’Leary sold the bulk of the 8,500 tickets for the event.
A Tactical Battle Unfolds in Dublin
The main event saw Cacace and Dickens engage in a tactical battle, with both fighters demonstrating their experience and ring intelligence.
Cacace utilized his reach and jab effectively in the early rounds, while Dickens attempted to close the distance and land power punches.
The middle rounds witnessed Cacace increasing his pressure, hurting Dickens in the fifth round and establishing control of the fight.
Cacace’s Future Plans: Unification on the Horizon
Following his victory, Cacace expressed his desire to unify the super-featherweight division, specifically targeting a showdown with Emanuel Navarrete (IBF, WBO) or O’Shaquie Foster (WBC).
“I want to unify the division and I want Navarrete next, whether it’s Saudi Arabia or where ever, I’m there,” Cacace stated.
Did you know?
Anthony Cacace has now defeated reigning or former world champions in his last four fights, showcasing his remarkable ascent in the boxing world.
FAQ
- Who won the fight between Anthony Cacace and Jazza Dickens? Anthony Cacace won by unanimous decision.
- What title did Cacace win? He won the WBA super-featherweight title.
- Where did the fight take place? The fight took place at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.
- What is Cacace’s record now? His record is now 25-1 (9 KOs).
Pro Tip
Strategic vacating of titles, as Cacace demonstrated, can be a calculated move to secure more lucrative fights and build a stronger legacy. Although, it requires careful planning and a clear vision for future goals.
This victory marks a significant milestone in Cacace’s career, positioning him as a major force in the super-featherweight division. The boxing world eagerly awaits his next challenge as he pursues unification and solidifies his status as a world-class champion.
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