Aaron McKenna's unorthodox path to boxing stardom has just got more fascinating – and this time it's personal. The Irish middleweight contender has revealed how an unlikely bond was forged with US rap royalty Kendrick Lamar in a Los Angeles gym back in 2018, an encounter that would leave a lasting impact on his life.
McKenna, then a teenager with the world at his feet, and his brother Stephen – also a boxer – were already putting in the hard yards when they crossed paths with Lamar. The rap superstar had just finished his own gruelling session when the McKennas began an intense eight rounds of technical sparring. Aaron McKenna recalled the fierce competitiveness sparked by Lamar's presence, who remained to watch every round like a ringside aficionado.
As their paths continued to cross at the gym, so did their conversations – and with it, a genuine connection was born. McKenna described Lamar as "a real nice fellow, down-to-earth with no arrogance whatsoever". The rapper's support didn't stop there; he even made a four-hour trek from Los Angeles to Fantasy Springs casino to catch one of McKenna's fights live in action.
Lamar's visit wasn't just about cheering on his mate – he also dropped by the dressing room to offer some words of wisdom, which McKenna has revealed were instrumental in helping him secure that crucial second-round knockout. Despite their geographical divide, the friendship endured until McKenna returned to Ireland with his family during the pandemic.
Fast-forward to today and Lamar's profile has gone stratospheric – multiple Grammy Awards and a show-stopping Super Bowl halftime performance are just a few of his many accolades. Speaking on the Sky Sports Toe2Toe podcast and BBC News NI, McKenna reflected on the serendipity of their connection, highlighting Lamar's remarkable character.
Now training at his family gym in County Monaghan with a world title showdown against Etinosa Oliha looming large, McKenna is keeping Lamar's door open – literally. "He'd always be welcome to come and spar here," he said, testament to their enduring friendship that spans the Atlantic.