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Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey’s Interview with Barry McGuigan

Born Finbar Patrick McGuigan on February 28, 1961, in Monaghan, Ulster, Ireland, Barry McGuigan was raised in the small town of Clones. He quickly made his mark in the boxing world as an amateur, capturing a gold medal at the 1978 Commonwealth Games. In 1981, he turned professional, embarking on a career that would make him one of Ireland’s most beloved sports figures.

McGuigan’s rise through the professional ranks was swift. By 1983, he had claimed both the British and European featherweight titles. His reputation continued to grow after impressive victories over top contender Jose Caba and former world featherweight champion Juan LaPorte. These wins set the stage for a showdown with the legendary Panamanian champion Eusebio Pedroza for the WBA featherweight title.

On June 8, 1985, nearly 26,000 fans filled Queen’s Park Rangers Stadium in London to witness the highly anticipated bout. In a thrilling 15-round contest, McGuigan knocked Pedroza down in the seventh round and outworked him throughout the fight, earning a unanimous decision and the world championship.

As WBA champion, McGuigan successfully defended his title twice, scoring an eighth-round knockout of Bernard Taylor and a 14th-round TKO over Danilo Cabrera. However, his reign came to an end in a grueling battle against Steve Cruz in the sweltering 110-degree heat of Caesars Palace, Las Vegas. After being knocked down in the 10th and 15th rounds, McGuigan lost his title by decision in what was considered a brutal war of attrition.

Following the loss, McGuigan took a two-year hiatus from boxing before returning for a brief comeback, winning four more fights before retiring for good in 1989. He finished his career with an impressive record of 32 wins, 3 losses, and 28 knockouts.

Known for his relentless stamina, iron chin, fearless heart, and non-stop fighting style, McGuigan became a national hero whose appeal reached far beyond the ring. During a time of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland, McGuigan’s popularity helped unite communities across religious divides. The phrase “Leave the fighting to McGuigan” became a symbol of hope and unity.

Since hanging up his gloves, McGuigan has remained a prominent figure in the sport. His charisma and insight made him a respected television commentator and columnist, continuing to influence boxing long after his days in the ring were over.

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