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Ready to show he is ‘The Donn’- Donnelly plans to prove he is next level ready


Steven Donnelly [4-0] had a pretty nice start to pro life last year.

Four wins in three months saw the Ballymena light middle quickly build up his record and he now goes into phase two this weekend.

Donnelly features on the MTK Global Fight Night at the Ulster Hall this Friday where he will fight over six rounds for the first time as he looks to kick on in his pro career.

Domestic titles are in the pipeline for the 30-year-old who is on a pro fast-track but is also keen to be as busy as possible so as to learn his trade.

Donnelly is happy so far and told Irish-Boxing.com that “I’ve had a great start to my pro career, great venues, great fighters topping the bills, fighting in Madison Square Garden. I couldn’t have asked for a better start.”

“It was only four rounders so I’m learning slowly and adapting better each fight,” added the fighter with plenty of five-round World Series of Boxing experience.

“I’ve still loads to show,” he promises. “Up to six rounds now so won’t feel as rushed and I can settle down and show what I’m made of,” he adds before reflecting on how he has adapted to the pro ranks.

“It does feel different changing codes the gloves are a lot smaller and you have to be aware a lot more in there or you will pay the price. My pace has always been fast but now I can slow down a bit more over the six rounds… more power.”

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The straight talking double Commonwealth bronze medallist and Rio Olympian is eager for a big year and hopes his next bout will be for a title.

Indeed, it’s something Donnelly is pushing for and seems to be taking an active role outside the ring in terms of his progression.

“In 2019 I want to push on and let MTK know what I want and will deliver. I want to go up to 8 rounds in my next fight and fight for a title of any sort. I have already told them who I want next. I’ve sent a few opponents actually but obviously I have to wait but I would fight them all tomorrow.”

Before any potential title fight Donnelly has to overcome the tough and durable Chris Jenkinson [11(4)-65(12)-3] at the Ulster Hall this Friday.

The Ballymena is aware Jekins is ‘no mug’, but is predicting another eye catching performance.

“Jenkinson is a tough nut and hits hard so I have to be aware and be smart and do what I do. He will come to fight and has a good win over a Polish lad [Damian Kiwior] I was in the WSB with so he’s no mug.”

“Fans can expect a great performance of speed, power and sharpness as always. I’m never in a boring fight.”

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Joe O'Neill

Reporting on Irish boxing the past five years. Work has appeared on irish-boxing.com, Boxing News, the42.ie, and local and national media. Provide live ringside updates, occasional interviews, and special features on the future of Irish boxing. email: joneill6@tcd.ie

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