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September 12th 1989 Billy Murray became a World Champion
September 12, 2026
THE NIGHT BELFAST ROARED: 37 Years Since Billy Murray First Conquered the World! TODAY, 12th September, marks exactly 37 years since a true Northern Irish sporting icon etched his name into the history books forever. On this day back in 1989, a packed-out, electric Ulster Hall witnessed Belfast’s own Billy Murray claim his very first professional World Kickboxing Welterweight title.
On this day September 12th, 1989, Billy Murray made history in Northern Ireland by become the first professional World kickboxing full-contact Champion for Northern Ireland.
12th September 1989 Belfast's Billy Murray faced off against the seemingly "unbeatable" Richard Hill, Murray stepped into the ring driven by pure determination. Having suffered a previous setback against Hill, many doubted if the Belfast fighter could pull it off. But if you know anything about Billy, you know he isn't a man to back down from a fight.
With the home crowd roaring him on, Murray put on a absolute masterclass of resilience, heart, and discipline, capturing the 67.7kg crown and introducing Northern Ireland to a new era of martial arts greatness.
That historic night was just the beginning of a legacy that saw him become a four-weight world champion and an Ulster University honorary doctor.
Through his legendary ProKick Gym, Billy has spent decades changing thousands of lives, proving that true champions are made both inside and outside the ring.
Join us in looking back at the night the dream became a reality.
Happy 37th Title Anniversary, Coach Billy Murray! 🏆🥊
Check-out this highlight reel below from Belfast's Billy Murray
