During the party, Ó Domhnalláin made advances towards a good-looking young blonde woman, who was Callanan's lover.
Just before the duel was to start, a nervous Ó Domhnalláin attempted to make up with Callanan, who very bluntly refused.
The men were placed some twenty to thirty yards apart and the ring of the signal bell, both fired.
It was Ó Domhnalláin, however, who proved to have the greater speed and agility and fired first.
Raifteiri composed a ballad on the event congratulating Ó Domhnalláin, in a tone that suggests the poem was seeking favour from him.