Italian job by Finglas kickboxing sensation

The little town of Tortona, tucked away in the northeastern region of Italy, recently hosted a prestigious kickboxing international fight night. 

On show, among some of the best Italian professional kickboxers, was a Finglas girl. Robyn McDonnell was invited over to fight on the card after being spotted on the international circuit by the fight night promoter.

Robyn (17) was pitted against an Italian world silver medallist in a 3×2 minute bout in what was billed as one of the best amateur fights on the card.

After training consistently for eight months with her coach Jon Mackey at Red Star Kickboxing, the Finglas fighter was in great shape stepping into the ring.

Mackey, who has been coaching Robyn since she was a kid, said Robyn was prepared mentally and physically for the fight.

"Robyn has a had a great year so far," said Mackey.

"She has a couple of great wins under her belt so heading to Italy for this fight was perfect, timing wise. We brought in Jimmy Upton, one of Ireland's best pad men, to work with Robyn, developing her medium range tactics. She was fully prepared for this fight." 

Thankfully all the training paid off and Robyn dominated the three rounds from the start. The home crowd were left in shock as the Italian favourite was picked off by Robyn who scored unanimously across all three judges at the end of the fight.

With another major win secured, Robyn will now get her head down as she prepares for the European kickboxing championships which are scheduled for next month in Hungary. 

We wish her the best of luck!