Published Saturday, 04 February 2012
Paddy Barnes at the 2012 Irish National Elite Senior Boxing Championships Finals (© Presseye)
The Olympic bronze medalist beat youngster Hugh Myres by 21 points to 17 in the flyweight final to secure his sixth consecutive national title and book his place at the final Olympic qualifying tournament in Turkey in April.
The Belfast boxer said he was delighted with the result.
He said: "There are no easy fights here. I was surprised.
"They were fast punches but they were not heavy.
"We were catching each other with shots to the body. I'm confident I can get one of the four qualifying spots
"I feel I'm the best in Europe and I want to prove that. I want about three more flights and I'll be flying," he said.
There was good news too for heavyweight Tommy McCarthy, who secured his first Irish title with a knockout victory over Christy Joyce.
The wins mean both Barnes and McCarthy will go on to the Olympic qualifying tournament in Turkey in April
Meanwhile Michael Conlon, who has already booked his place at London 2012, also claimed an Irish title with a 19-11 win over Chris Phelan.