Opponent Ashie aiming to use Stephen Ormond to secure World Title fight
George Ashie believes Stephen Ormond will prove the gateway to big world level.
The man they call the ‘Red Tiger’ fights ‘The Rock’ in at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow, on August 24th and, according to his manager, believes it’s a chance for the Ghanaian to take a big step toward lightweight world honours.
Indeed, Mike Altamura has labelled the clash a must win for his charge. The Australian fight man admits Clondalkin’s Ormond [25(13)-5(1)] is a tough challenge for the WBO #14-ranked fighter, but understands it’s a test he must pass if he wants to challenge for a world strap.
The team have their eye on new champion Raymundo Beltran, who defends versus Jose Pedraza next month, and see Ormond as a major step towards this.
“Ormond is a very strong, quality fighter, but the type Ashie needs to overcome if he’s destined for bigger fights,” Altamura explained.
“It’s a great opportunity live on BoxNation and hopefully if a broadcaster comes to the table, beamed back to Ghana live too.”
“Definitely a tough fight for Ashie but a must win for him to continue toward a world title fight,” added Altamura who is also involved in the careers of upcoming Portlaoise world title challenger TJ Doheny and Carl Frampton’s next opponent, Luke Jackson.
If the WBO ‘interim’ African lightweight title holder believes an Ormond win in Scotland will bring him a step closer to a world shot, there is nothing to say that a win for the Celtic Warriors Gym fighter won’t do the same for him.
35-year-old Ormond comes into the fight looking for one more crack at the big time while former Commonwealth and African champ Ashie [28(20)-4(0)-1] fights outside Ghana for the first time since 2006 when he lost to Martin Watson and Kevin Mitchell in UK-hosted scraps.
The 34-year-old has fought rather infrequently in recent years against decent African opposition, most recently in April winning his rankings belt on a majority decision at home versus South African Michael Mokoena.
The fight is one of three featuring Irish talents at the top of the bill. Mullingar super feather Davey Oliver Joyce headlines versus Belfast-based Scot Ronnie Clark, while Blanchardstown light welter Darragh Foley takes on Scottish legend Willie Limond.
