Phil Sutcliffe is not your typical prospect says coach

Pic by Sharon Flanagan

Phillip Sutcliffe Jr fights for only the tenth time as a professional at the National Stadium on February 6, but is anything but a novice pro argues his coach Phil Stucliffe Sr.

Indeed, Sutcliffe Sr claims the Dublin prospect would fight the European champion in the morning if given the chance.

The Crumlin BC coach believes the ‘learn your trade rules’ are not applied to Sutcliffe in the same manner they are other prospects due to his sons extensive amateur experience.

The coach also suggests light welterweight ‘Succo,’ who fights former European title challenger Alexandre Lepelley,  has passed every pro test put his way to date and is closing in on big time action.

“Young Phil is progressing nicely. His hand injuries seem to be behind him. He has dropped everyone he has fought. He is on his ninth fight and he has a very tough opponent. This won’t be an easy fight either,” Sutcliffe told Irish-boxing.com.

“We are very confident in Phil’s ability he is ahead of most 9-0 fighters. He does the eight rounds easy and is as good as fully seasoned pros at this stage.

“If we got a European title fight now we would take it. Phillip has boxed World class in the amateurs and I know its a step up in the pros, but he is right up there.”

The 26 year old certainly is a noted puncher and has at some stage introduced all of his nine pro opponents to the canvas despite going the distance three times. However, his coach is adamant there is more to the former Irish amateur champion than power.

“He has proven he can take a shot and give a shot. He is a beautiful boxer, some people say he is just a puncher, but he can box his amateur career shows you that.”