7 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Stephen Ormond returns home to the venue were he made his name as he fights on the under card of Pajo Hylands National Stadium hosted WBF world title fight on June 25.

The much travelled boxer lit up the only purpose built boxing venue in the world as an amateur winning three senior titles and earning a reputation that saw him tipped as the natural successor to fellow Clondalkin star Bernard Dunnes King of Irish boxing throne. The Frank Warren promoted 28 year old now enters the famous ring without his head guard and vest for the first time in what is only his third pro fight in Ireland after he replaced stable mate Ian Tims on the card.

And Ormond cant wait for what he predicts will be a victorious and boisterous welcome home.

I am going back to my roots. I am really looking forward to this fight. The Stadium has the best atmosphere in the world for boxing. I have travelled as a pro and amateur and the Stadium is still my favourite venue. I havent fought there in over 5 years and I cant wait to get back. When Paddy Hyland asked me to fight on the show I didnt hesitate. It is a chance to fight in front of my home fans.

The Clondalkin native, who was tipped by big time American promoter Lou Debella to become a world champ, last seven fights have been shared between the UK and America and he is delighted to be able to showcase his talents to the Dublin faithful once again. However, Ormond is adamant there is no pressure to put on a show and he will just ensure he notches up win number 10 ahead of his return to bumper Warren cards.

It is a great chance to let the people of Dublin see me in action again, but I dont think there is pressure on me. I am only back in the gym this week and I will just box to win the fight. I will use this as a warm for my fight in the UK next month.

The 28 year old lightweight has been told by Frank Warren to be in shape for July 16 and expects to be out another Ricky Burns world title fight under card. Whilst he is excited about furthering his career and getting into title contention with fights in Britain he is thrilled at the prospect of possibly returning to the Stadium as the head line act for a big Warren Show.

The experienced British Promoter has recently added Dean Byrne to a growing Irish stable that includes Spike OSullivan and Ormond and the Clondalkin puncher revealed Warren is planning Irish shows.

Frank told me to be ready for July 16 I presume I am on the Burns undercard. I hope to get an eight or 10 rounder so I can push for a title then. Frank has said he would like to put us on in Ireland and its great to see him sign another Irish fighter. The more the merrier. Hopefully next time I will be in the Stadium will be on a big Warren show.

Leave a comment

7 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Andy Lee has informed his management team to try and make a fight with former John Duddy defeater and WBC world champion Julio Chavez Junior.

Chavez became the first ever Mexican to become a middleweight champion when he scrapped past Zbik last weekend. And as soon as the son of ring legend Julio Cesar Chavez buckled the WBC strap around his waist Limerick man, Lee was being touted as a potential opponent. Indeed Chavez Jnr coach and Wild Card boss Freddie Roach is rumoured to have suggested the Irish south paw for his charges first defence.

Former Bernard Dunne and Steve Collins trainer recently watched as another of his middleweight charges, Craig McEwan, was sensationally stopped by the former Olympian. However the four time trainer of the year is said to be confident he can plot Lees downfall at the second time of asking.

Lee has confirmed there has been no contact from the Golden Boy Promoted fighter yet but stressed he would love nothing more than a Chavez tilt. In fact he has told his team to instigate talks re a fight with the 25 years old 43 fight veteran.

If it is true Freddie said that, its great news. I would love that fight. Chavez is good and improving under Freddie Roach but I would be confident of beating him. It would be a good fight, a good clash of styles, so we’ll see. There’s been no contact yet but I’ll be urging my management team to get on it and see where it goes, Lee told Mirror Sport.

Lee also dismissed suggestions he will appear on the Klitschko Haye card but is planning another fight next month.

I’m not fighting on the Klitschko/Haye card. I’ve just had two weeks off training and I’m looking to fight towards the end of July, no opponent nor venue decided yet.

Leave a comment

7 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Marcos Maidanas manager, Sebastin Contursi has revealed that the Argentine is very interested in a clash with former European Champion Paul McCloskey and is willing to put the WBA interim title on the line in Belfast later in the year.

McCloskey has been actively seeking a bout with one of the 140 pound divisions elite since his controversial failed attempt to dethrone Amir Khan in April. The Derry man has specifically set his sights on the star, John Breen believes he would make look stupid, and it seems he may get the big time return he craves.

Maidanas manager is just waiting on promoter Golden Boy’s approval before bringing negotiations to the next level. Contursi also revealed a barrage of Dudey Army Tweets in Maidanas direction proved the catalyst behind early talks re a fight between the light welterweight duo.

Marcos received a lot of messages on Twitter and called me and contact with Team McCloskey was made. It seems that Paul has many supporters in the UK. Also, I think Marcos is a very well respected fighter over there. We really like the idea of facing McCloskey, Contursi told www,irish-boxing.com.

However, first we have to talk with our promoter Golden Boy Promotions and see what they think. We would be interested in going to Belfast or anywhere in the UK. I am not sure if HBO would be interested or not. Of course Marcus would be confident of winning. He is always confident.

Leave a comment

7 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Frank Warren’s new Irish signing Dean Byrne will make his debut for the promoter on the big Excel show in London on July 9.Unbeaten in 14 fights, “Irish Lightning” is aiming for the very top – and a world title shot within 18 months.

The 26-year-old, who fights at welterweight, boxed for Ireland as an amateur, but won the Australian light-welterweight title as a professional. That came after he emigrated to Australia, winning and defending the belt in his fifth and sixth fights. Globe-trotting Byrne then switched to California, where he teamed up with Freddie Roach at his Wild Card Gym in California.

Six more wins followed in the States, before Byrne then fought twice in his native Dublin. Now he’s ended up in London – and finds himself on Warren’s North ‘n’ South card, headlined by the big clash between John Murray and Kevin Mitchell. He joins other Irish stars in Warren’s stable, including Stephen Ormond and Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan.

“I’ve heard really good things about Dean, and I’m looking forward to seeing him in action,” said Warren.

“There have been some great Irish fighters over the years, and I know Byrne wants to join the likes of Steve Collins and Barry McGuigan as a world champion.

“He’s travelled all over the world already, so he’s got a mature head on his shoulders, and I’m sure that will stand him good stead.”

Byrne added: “I can’t wait to fight on July 9. I’ve not boxed since Christmas so I’m feeling fresh, and I’ve got a real hunger for this fight.”

Leave a comment

7 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Finbarr Eade has traded Galway for Dublin and Leisureland, Salthill, Galway for the National Stadium show and now fights in the Battle of the Counties show on June 25.

The Rock claims the lure of fighting on a world title under card proved to much and he has opted against contesting his sixth pro fight in the West. The Westerner is hoping to clock up another victory in a support bout to Patrick Hylands WBF title tilt on a show he admits he would be a spectator of if he wasnt a participant.

I am off the Galway show because I have been given the opportunity to fight on a world title bill in the Stadium. I think its a great show and gets me great exposure. I know I will perform in the Stadium. What fighter wouldnt want to fight there and on such a big show. I am delighted to be on this bill. There is some great scraps lined up. Honestly, if I wasnt fighting i would definitely be sitting in the audience, Eade told www.irish-boxing.com before admitting the new venue isnt ideal for his Mayo support.

I am a little bit disappointed in that regard. Galway is only 50 miles from Westport and easy for my crew to go to, but I am also very excited about the other show. Hopefully there will be another show near home soon and hopefully some will travel down to Dublin. I do want to wish the IPBA and everyone involved and the fighters the best of luck on June 18.

Eade, who keeps his Galway opponent despite the change in date and venue, is hoping to move up into Irish title contention. The veteran who was away for the game for along time wants to bigger fights for 2011 and he believes a win this month will move him toward the top of the domestic charts.

Its important for me to perform at my best and hopefully ill be seen as a real contender for an Irish title soon. I am very confident I can get a big fight by the end of the year but i want to be 100per cent ready and fit to go the longer rounds. When i get my chance i want to come out on top.

Leave a comment

5 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Andy Murray unwillingly lived up to his Quiet Man ring moniker in and out of the ring in Cardiff last Saturday night, as he was out foxed by Gavin Rees in their European lightweight title fight.

The home fighter’s tactics ensured the Cavan man wasnt busy or active enough for the majority of the clash and subsequently sat hushed and disappointed in his dressing room after his first career defeat. There were certainly no boisterous Irish celebrations as the former EU champion disappointingly fell at the final Continental hurdle in the Motor Point Arena. The John Breen trained fighter did threaten a Lazarus style comeback when the Welsh puncher tired in the latter stages, however the intelligent yet shot Newbridge fighter literally held on for dear life.

By round nine former world champion was dead on his feet, but despite a late Murray flurry ensured his EBU title dreams remained alive. The 31 year old employed all his ring craft to just about make it to the final bell intact. And as Rees deservedly buckled the prestigious blue belt around his waist Murray cut a disconsolate figure in a post fight dressing room that resembled a morgue.

The 28 year old, who also missed the opportunity to equal the longest unbeaten streak in Irish boxing history, pointed to the impressive Welsh fighter’s ring cunning as the core difference between the pair.

I am very disappointed. He was there for the taking, but he was clever. He stole a few close rounds and that was the decisive thing in the end, Murray told Mirror sport after the fight, before admitting to being surprised by Rees counter punch tactics.

He stood off and waited to catch me coming in. He was very clever but you have to be able to employ different tactics for different fighters.

Up and until round eight Rees was in control. He looked comfortable and content in the ring and despite being the shorter fighter had the more effective jab. However by the end of the seventh Irish amateur legend Paul Griffin was buzzing round ring side informing everyone the home fighter was, just as John Breen had predicted, struggling for fitness. European challenger Murray, who brought a very vocal support, seemed to agree with the former European gold medallist and he upped the tempo in a bid to take his opponent out.

But Rees has been around the block and literally spoilt the former Irish amateur standouts title dreams.

Even when he was tired he was clever. He held and spoilt a lot. He got docked a point for it, but it worked for him. I couldnt take full advantage of the situation. He held a lot and even caught me with hooks on the way out, Murray added seconds after Rees came in to the dressing room and admitted he was all but gone.

The talented Ulster man, who lost by a unanimous 115-112, 115-112 and 116-112 decision, will surely come again but wasnt willing to look past getting disrobed after Saturday nights reverse.

It is to early to be looking ahead. I am just out of the ring. What is next for me? Getting my boots off.

Leave a comment

5 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Carl Frampton proved he has substance to back his much touted style as he retained his Celtic title and secured a coveted British title shot with victory over the tough Robbie Turley in Cardiff on Saturday.

Barry McGuigans protg endured the toughest fight of his career to date against an awkward and durable opponent, but showed grit, determination and maturity to register his tenth pro victory. The Jackal had to deal with a cut just over the eye, a point deduction for landing after the bell and the brave Turleys granite chin on what a very entertaining Sky debut for the Belfast man. However, despite being pushed Frampton never looked like he was going to do anything but win the bout comfortably. The undefeated prospect, who dropped his opponent temporarily in the eighth, lit up every round with flashes of brilliance and Turley proved more a test of the prospects resolve than his talent.

Legendary coach Gerry Storey was delighted with his charge’s mature display, but was also happy with how Turley performed. Storey was happy Frampton got ten rounds under his belt and learnt you have to out box rather than knock some opponents out.

We knew Turley was going to be tough. He is very awkward and brave. Believe it or not I was delighted with Carls performance. He put in ten terrific and tough rounds against a tough opponent. It was a learning fight from beginning to end, Storey told Mirror Sport after the bout.

When he followed instructions he looked a level above. Carl outclassed the lad but he wanted to punch him at times. I was happy he got taken the distance. He had to use his skill to win and he will learn from that. Turley is tall for the weight and he took some shots. We had seen him before and we expected that. We were worried about him we knew he was a good fighter. He was in fifth gear from the first round and I was delighted he showed Carl what it is like to go ten rounds. He was a great entertaining fight, Storey added before commenting on the cut.

“He was tall, and we seen him use the head a little bit before. That happens in boxing. Lets hope Carl doesnt get cut again but you have to deal with cuts when the come and can’t let them affect you to much. Thats the nature of the contest. Storey stressed banking that fight will reap British title dividends and backed Frampton to go on and take domestic honours by the end of the year, however told Mirror Sport he isn’t sure if the Belfast star will get a warm up bout in between.

Leave a comment

4 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Andy Murrays six week stint in the west will ensure he shoots down Gavin Rees and plunders European lightweight gold in Cardiff tomorrow night.

Murray upped sticks to a remote location in Connemara to prepare for the biggest fight of his life against the former world champion and Prizefighter winner. And coach, John Breen, who admits he was initially sceptical about employing a pre fight training camp, claims his fighter has benefited immensely. Breen, who also trains recent world title challenger Paul McCloskey, stressed he has never seen the former EU champion in better shape and is adamant Murray win in the tussle for the vacant EBU lightweight title.

The Irish Trainer of the Year for 2009 warned Rees that his charge is sensationally fit, focused and fully schooled in the art of beating the Welsh fighter.

Andy is in the best shape of his life. I was sceptical at first, but Andy has got a lot out of his trip to Connemara, Breen told Mirror Sport. I have never seen Andy tired and he is generally very fit but after this camp he is super fit. Rees has been saying he is good shape too, but believe me Andy will still be throwing punches well after Rees tires. Andy has the beating of him. He has worked hard to get here and deserves his shot. He will win.

Breen does admit Rock Rees represents the Quiet Mans hardest career challenge, but believes he has seen chinks in the come forward fighters armour. The Belfast trainer has told the undefeated 26 year old to beat the fight out of the 31 year old by pummelling his body.

We know what to expect from Rees. He is a good pro, a former world champ and he is the best fighter Andy has faced. But his best is behind him and Andy will have to much for him. Andy will punch and move and fight behind his jab. We will also target the body. Rees doesnt like body shots and Andy will slow him down by going down stairs.

Leave a comment

4 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

John Simpson wants to use a fight with former WBA interim world title challenger Willie Casey as proof he can cut it at the top of the Super Bantamweight division.

The teak tough Scot plans a drop a from featherweight to increase his title chances and wants to make his debut at the lighter weight against Limericks former European Champion. Simpsons manager Alex Morrison confirmed contact with team Dolphil has been made and he is confident a deal can be reached. Morrision stressed he believes the mouthwatering fight between Prizefighter winner, Casey and the man who dethroned former British champions Martin Lindsay will go ahead, but revealed it would have to be promoted by a third party.

The Scots manager named Frank Maloney as said potential promoter and stressed it is a great clash for the fans and two fighters who are stuck in boxing limbo.

Willie Casey John Simpson is the fight we want, Morrison told www.irish-boxing.com.

It makes sense on so many levels. Both fighters really dont have anywhere to go at present. We have been in contact with team Casey and I think the fight can be made. I think it will happen. Hopefully Frank Maloney would put it on. John wants to come down to super bantam and a fight with Casey gives him a chance to make a statement at the new weight. He doesnt want to hang about and wants good fights. It is also a cracking fight for the fans. Casey is former European champion and John has been in six title fights. Neither take a step back and both are little tough guys.

Big Bang Casey, who is actively seeking a return after being stopped by the brilliant Guillermo Rigondeaux, revealed he was interested in the bout, but added he had to hear anything concrete.

I havent heard anything about Simpson yet, but it would be a good fight. I would be interested and I would love if it could be made, but you never know in boxing.

Leave a comment

4 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Carl Frampton has warned Robbie Turley he can run but he cant hide as he bids to stop him in their Celtic title fight and British title eliminator in Wales tonight.

The Jackal wants to make it a perfect 10 fights unbeaten by forcing the referee to administrate a 10 count on the Welsh champion.

The Belfast prospect, who has is regularly tipped for the very top, makes his Sky debut in the Motor Point arena and wants to put in a performance that will make everyone take note. Barry McGuigans protg claims once Turley tastes his power he will go on the back foot, but stressed over ten rounds he will eventually get the chance to dispatch the home fighter.

It is my first live fight on Sky and I plan to get the knock out. It doesnt always work that way but if I get the chance I will take it. Once I catch him he will go on the back foot. It might take me a while to catch him but over ten rounds I will get the chance to take him out. Once that chance comes I am the type of fighter that will take my time and stop a fighter. Frampton, who claimed his new baby girl is his prime motivation ahead of the biggest fight of his career, told Mirror Sport.

Despite expressing confidence and claiming he is already ready to fight for the British title he hopes to challenge for by the end of the year the fighter, who shares a double date with destiny with Andy Murray in the Motor Point arena tonight, claims he is not over looking the Welsh native.

Turley is going to prove very awkward. I am certainly not over looking him. He is Welsh champion and he will try spoil a lot, but it is up to me to the business and I am confident I can win and remain on course for the British title. Tommy Waite brought the British title to my local club when I was younger and every since it has been a massive dream for me to get that belt. it is a beautiful belt and one I would like to own outright. A win on Saturday will bring me a step closer. I feel ready for Jason Booth now. He I was offered the chance to fight him on Saturday night I would have taken it the star in the making added.

Leave a comment