Glenroe native Sean Tobin, has claimed the Akuma Professional MMA Bantamweight title, after a comprehensive title fight victory in Templepatrick, Antrim last weekend.

Sean, who turned professional in 2013 and is affiliated with Trial Martial Arts Ireland, got back to winning ways after a lengthy lay-off last year through injury.

He beat fellow Irishman James McErlean by decision after three five-minute rounds. Speaking to The Avondhu after the fight, Sean said he was happy with how it went.

“It was a good fight. I won by decision so I won every round. It was close at the start but it was fairly one-sided towards the end and I won comfortably.”

This latest win brings his professional record to three wins from four fights, after progressing two years ago following a stellar amateur career.

On the transition to the professional ranks, Sean commented: “It just means I have to train a hell of a lot more from when I used to be an amateur, which means I’m training pretty much full time now – twice a day, every day.

“That’s the main difference, I’ve got to train a lot harder because the rounds and the rules are a lot harder and tougher, and obviously the opponents are an awful lot tougher so just hard work and dedication now is what it’s all about.”

MMA is flourishing at present in Ireland, thanks to increased media exposure and the success of home-grown fighters, none more so than Conor McGregor, who has sparked public interest in the sport.

For Sean, looking forward, the plan is to take as many opportunities as possible to fight and make up for lost time after his season of injuries.

“I’m looking to stay as busy as I can, as I missed pretty much a year out of the sport last year through a few injuries. It hasn’t been confirmed yet but its looking like I’ve another fight lined up in seven weeks time, which would be in May.

“From there then I just want to stay as busy as I can so whenever an opportunity pops up, I’m going to take as many as I can. I want to fight another two to three times before the end of the year,” he added.

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