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‘I said I had options besides TJ – F**K him saying I am beneath him’ – McCullagh on possible world title fight

The rivalry is that real Tyrone McCullough couldn’t resist hitting out at TJ Doheny when talk of a possible WBO world title fight broke late last week.
The MTK duo have shared some Twitter spars as well as back and forts via the media of late, with former IBF super bantamweight world champion Doheny taking exception to ‘deluded’ McCullagh’s call outs.
The progression hungry Derry fighter has been forthright in his calls for the bout and is adamant he would be a viable option for ‘The Power’ pre and post his world title reign.
Now with news that enquiries have been made about WBO super bantamweight champion Emanuel Navarrete, with a view to the Mexican making a voluntary defence versus Derry fighter breaking, McCullagh believes it’s further proof he is world title challenge worthy.
“I’d mentioned in a previous interview I had other options bar TJ, well here it is,” he told Irish-boxing.com
“Fuck him saying I’m beneath him.”
A fight with the 24 year old Mexican isn’t done as of yet and it seems a lot of negotiating and money will be needed to tempt the Mexican to the Falls Road on August 3.
doheny mccullagh
McCullagh is aware it’s early stages in terms of securing a shot at the WBO strap, but he would love nothing more for his chance to come at the Feile.

“I’m very keen for it, fighting for a world title in my own country in a festival its what you dream of!”

‘White Chocolate’ is just 13 fights into his pro career and his best wins have come against domestic opposition.
However, the notoriously awkward south paw isn’t afraid of what he admits would be a massive step up a little sooner than he would have expected.
“I’ve always believed in my capabilities I knew I’d be here. Ok fair enough this time last year. I hadn’t even won my first title and now less than a year later I’m close to fighting for a world title so it might be a bit sooner than expected but I’m more than up for it.”
 
navarrete mccullagh
As stated the Top Rank and Zanifer promoted fighter would represent a massive step up for the 28 year old. 
If the bout is made McCullough is aware he would be deemed a ‘massive underdog’ against the a champion he believes is the best at the weight, but his confidence in his ability prompts him to have faith he could cause an upset.
“I’d probably stop him in the first three,” he jokes.
 
“No seriously, I believe Navaratte is the best out of all the 122lbs and beats every other world champion at this weight.
“Technically he’s undefeated and his KO ratio is very impressive but look I wouldn’t take the fight if I didn’t think I could win if it happens. I’ll be a massive underdog but that suits me to a tee,” he adds before sending another cheeky jibe the way of Doheny.
“I’ll beat him then if TJ asks really nicely I might give him a shot.”

dpg

Jonny Stapleton

Irish-boxing.com contributor for 15 years and editor for the past decade. Have been covering boxing for over 16 years and writing about sports for a living for over 20 years. Former Assistant Sports editor for the Gazette News Paper Group and former Tallaght Voice Sports Editor. Have had work published in publications around the world when working as a freelance journalist. Also co-founder of Junior Sports Media and Leinster Rugby PRO of the Year winner. email: editoririshboxing@gmail.com

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