For Joe McGrail, the setbacks of 2025 are firmly in the rear-view mirror. After an injury halted what many believed would be a breakthrough year, the 23-year-old Liverpool super bantamweight has returned with renewed determination, a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, and the opportunity to showcase his talent on one of the biggest stages of his professional career. Now, with momentum back on his side, McGrail is determined to begin fulfilling his potential.
Training under renowned head coach Paul Stevenson at the Everton Red Triangle Boxing Club, McGrail is part of one of Britain’s most successful gyms. Alongside his brother Peter McGrail, former world champion Nick Ball and highly-rated Irish heavyweight prospect Adam Olaniyan, the competitive environment continues to drive each fighter to new levels.
After an injury robbed him of momentum last year, McGrail admits signing with Matchroom has reignited his ambitions.
“Signing my new deal with Matchroom gives me great optimism. I’m made up with it. It gives me a clear plan, and I’m excited to see where they can move me, towards the big titles and the big nights. That all starts on September 5. It’s a massive night for me and my team.”
Thriving Everton Red Triangle
The atmosphere inside Everton Red Triangle has rarely been stronger, with success breeding confidence throughout the gym.
Watching stablemate Nick Ball reach the pinnacle of the sport has only strengthened McGrail’s belief that he can follow a similar path, while Peter McGrail continues towards titles of his own and Adam Olaniyan’s arrival has added further quality to an already thriving stable.
“The gym’s absolutely flying, lad. We’re all at it every day, pushing each other on. Adam’s settled in really well. He’s become one of my good mates, and we do a lot of training together. The atmosphere in the gym is unbelievable at the moment. We’re all flying.”
Croke Park Opportunity
McGrail returns to action on September 5 when he boxes on one of the biggest events of his professional career at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park.
Following the frustration of last year’s injury setback, the Liverpool man believes this is the moment he has been waiting for.
“That’s what I’ve had in my head all year, to be honest. Last year, I felt like it was going to be my breakout year, but then I got injured. After that, I promised myself this would be the year. I started the year with a great win, and this is ten times bigger. It’s by far the biggest show I’ve fought on as a professional, and I think this will be my breakout party.”
McGrail has also taken time to appreciate what fighting at Croke Park means.
“I’ve looked into the history of Croke Park, and I know how much it means to Irish people. I can’t wait.”
Respectful but Confident
Standing opposite McGrail will be unbeaten Irish champion Matthew Boreland, a fight that promises to test the Liverpool prospect.
Interestingly, it was Boreland himself who first reached out about making the contest.
“I hadn’t actually seen much of Matthew before. But he actually messaged me before the fight was made saying, ‘Let’s make this fight.’ I sent it over to my manager, and that’s how it came about on my end. He looks good from what I’ve seen, but I’m not one for sitting there breaking down opponents. I just make sure the best version of me turns up, and I know that’ll be enough.”
A Homecoming Away From Home
Despite travelling to Ireland, McGrail may not feel entirely like the away fighter.
With strong Irish roots running through both sides of his family, September 5 carries extra significance.
“I’m hoping to get as many Liverpool supporters over as I can, although I haven’t been given many tickets because the show sold out before I was added to the card.
“I’ve actually got Irish roots on both sides of my family. On my mum’s side, we’ve got the O’Neills, the Sullivans and the Murphys. One of my great-grandparents came over from Cork when he was 14. Then on my dad’s side, the McGrails are also from Ireland. I might have to have a word and see who’s actually the home fighter!”
Looking Ahead
Still only 23, Joe McGrail remains one of British boxing’s most exciting emerging talents. Injuries may have delayed his progress, but they have done little to dent his confidence.
Armed with a long-term Matchroom contract, surrounded by one of the country’s strongest gyms and preparing to perform under the lights at Croke Park, McGrail believes his long-awaited breakout moment has finally arrived.
September 5 could prove to be the night the Liverpool super bantamweight announces himself as a genuine contender on the international stage.
IRISH BOXING DIGEST 
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