Bantam Tyrone McCullagh’s big hit list has room for ‘Big Sexy’

In some ways it’s a serious hit list that shows no respect for weight but most likely it’s a fight wish list that should be taken with a bucket rather than pinch of salt.

Among the fighters Tyrone McCullagh [9(5)-0] says he wants to fight in 2018 are Dublin heavyweight Sean ‘Big Sexy’ Turner and a welterweight he feels stole his ‘White Chocolate’ ring moniker in 2018.

Ambitious for a super bantamweight to say the least, but the serial messer does drop in two credible names as potential foes this year and possible opponents for his big Carl Frampton- Nonito Donaire undercard clash.

Super bantamweight Commonwealth Champion Ashley Lane is an option and Scottish title holder Joe Ham whets the Derry fighters appetite.

“There are a few fighters out there who I’d like before the end of the year, Joe Ham as I’ve said before. There’s no bad feeling there but we have similar records and I believe it’s a great and easy fight to make,” McCullagh told Irish-boxing.com before getting more adventurous.

“Sean “Big Ugly” Turner he’s a clown and there’s some wannabe out in America Anthony Martinez, calling himself White Chocolate and there’s only room for one of us in the pro game,” he continued before flirting with being serious again.

“On a more serious note Ashley Lane would be another great fight and one I’d like.”

Having progressed to 9-0 since turning over in 2015 the ‘White Chocolate’ is keen to start progressing toward title fights. The fact he has secured a slot on the massive Fampton/Donaire card shows some form of progression toward the big stage and the Derry favourite believes it could be the start of a big year for him.

“I hope so we will see,” he answered when asked if his opponent would reflect the size of the occasion. “I believe there are big plans for me this year and title fights are in the pipeline. Although with that being said we already have four massive 10 and 12 rounders rounders on the bill, I’m not sure if there will be room for anymore. It’s been so far so good but things get a lot tougher from here on in. In saying that, that’s what I want and I can’t wait to see what lays ahead,” he continued before quipping the idea of making weight for April 21 quickly took away the excitement of being added to the bill.

“Initially I was very excited when I got the news, but then I stepped on the scales for the first time since Christmas and that excitement quickly faded.”

While there might be some dread for a fighter infamous for his weight making capabilities, the loyal McCullagh following will certainly be excited at the prospect of being able to go support their man and take in one of the best shows to come to Belfast in recent years.

McCullagh believes it’s a massive reward for their loyalty.

“It’s brilliant for my supporters. They deserve this, they come with me everywhere so it’s nice they are getting to a massive show like this.”

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)