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Rohan Daté discusses possible Murphy title fight and potential Waterford return

Rohan Date [8(6)-0-1] admits he has talked to Noel Murphy’s team with regard to a Irish welterweight title fight, but is not sure if it’s in his plans for 2019.
To even start thinking about a title clash Cork’s Murphy [13(2)-1(0)-1] would have to overcome Jake Hanney in an eagerly anticipated clash for the green strap scheduled for the Neptune Stadium on July 20.
However, if the New York based Rebel was to emerge victorious on the first pro show to visit Cork in over a decade and clash with the London based puncher, who fights at York Hall tonight, would appeal.
Date’s team have recently stated they would like their charge to taste domestic glory before attempting to maneuver toward world level.
The 25 year old Waterford fighter revealed he has discussed the possibility of the match up with Murphy’s manager Kevin Crowley – quiet possibly when promoter Martin Horgan was looking for a Jay Byrne replacement- and said discussions were fruitful.
However, while keen the Deise fighter isn’t sure if it’s a cert to happen next.
“Of course it is a belt anyone in Ireland wants. I spoke with his (Murphy’s) manager and we both agreed that Noel and I, could have huge pulling power,” Date told Irish-boxing.com before his York Hall knockout win on Saturday. 
“I’m not sure would it be right away as I have a plan for me career already set out this year but again you never know how things change.”
Date also revealed a return to his home town is also a 2019 option. The big punching fighter stopped Jade Karam on last years successful Neil Power run Ring King’s show at WIT and would love to experience fighting at home again.
“I have been in talks with Neil from Ring Kings, and he is currently looking at a big show back in Waterford. Another big win in front of my home crowd would be a great night of boxing.”

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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