Aaron McKenna produces glittering performance to win in Japan

Aaron McKenna progressed to the semi-finals of a $1m Prizefighter series this morning after overcoming Jeovanny Estela with a dominant performance in Osaka.

In a battle of two unbeaten middleweight fighters, Monaghan's McKenna was aggressive and precise throughout against his Puerto Rican opponent and in truth the fight should have been brought to a close sooner before eventually the referee waved it off in the last minute of the tenth and final round.

McKenna will face experienced Englishman Kieron Conway in the semi-finals in October in Japan once again.

The tournament is organised by Matchroom Boxing with the lure of the major monetary prize as well as being in position to challenge for a world title come its conclusion.

McKenna, 24, had been looking for a breakthrough in his career after a series of frustrations.

He trained in Robert Garcia and Freddie Roach's gym for a year each in the US and has gained significant experienced in preparation for occasions such as today, including sparring pound-for-pound star Terrence Crawford.

The Smithborough fighter had one scare in the first round where he was caught by a strong Estela right-hand.

That was as good as it got for Estela with McKenna reeling off victorious rounds that saw him have constant success to the head and the body.

The bout became a formality from the fourth round with the Irishman demonstrating his considerable talent as he picked off shots with ease.

The closing rounds did not see McKenna let up as he stayed inside his man and inflicted significant punishment.

It looked as if Estela would see the final bell but the referee eventually stepped in with 70 seconds remaining.

He will share a $100,000 bonus with Conway who also stopped Ainiwaer Yilixiati in the