DIAMOND DON

Sparkle returns after big win for Irishman

- GARY HITCHCOCK

PRESSURE makes diamonds and Caolan Loughran put himself under plenty of it to produce a sparkling performance in Atlantic City, inspired by the UFC’s own precious jewel.

‘The Don’ proved he’s far from done as he finally got his octagon career up and running with a unanimous decision victory over a game Angel Pacheco.

The Irish bantamweight, a former Cage Warriors champion, is a hot prospect but lost a close decision on debut to Taylor Lapilus last September in Paris.

However, taking inspiration from fan favourite Dustin ‘The Diamond’ Poirier, who made his name with back-to-back victories over Conor McGregor in 2021, Loughran put his one and only defeat behind him and is now determined to climb the 135lb division.