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Andy Lee tells Jason Quigley it’s time to give fans something ‘to get excited about’

Andy Lee has called for Jason Quigley [16(12)-1(1)]to start fulfilling his potential.

The former WBO middleweight champion is training the middleweight prospect for his December return and having seen the Donegal fighter’s qualities first hand feels now is the time for him to deliver.

Having claimed World Championships amateur silver, Quigley turned over with great fanfare and signed with big American outfit Golden Boy.

He progressed nicely early doors under Manny Robles Stateside and with nine knockout wins in 10 decent opening fights was been touting as a future world champ and foe for the likes of Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.

The 28-year-old then hit speed bump during a step up win over known name Glen Tapia. Quigley won the fight and the NABF middleweight title, but broke his hand early in the bout.

Not only did the injury prevent him from looking explosive, but it ruled him out for a year. Upon his return he registered three good wins, but then came unstuck against Tureano Johnson in July.

That defeat has forced a rethink and Quigley has now teamed up with Lee on a fight at a time training basis.

Lee believes his first job is to make sure the Lagy fighter translates his obvious talents into ring success.

“It’s time for Jason to start fulfilling his potential. Jason has a huge amount of talent. It’s about shaping that talent now and making it effective in the ring,” said Lee before suggesting he has been happy with the relationship to date.

“I’ve only been working with him for a short time, but I already see improvements. Jason is very teachable and takes everything on board. It has been encouraging so far.”

The link up hasn’t been confirmed as long term as of yet, but regardless of the length of time together the former Limerick fighter, turned coach and respected pundit, believes he can have a lasting effect on the Sheer Sports managed fighter.

The former Kronk fighter suffered a similar defeat to Quigley at the same point of his career -15 fights in- when he lost to Brian Vera.

He is aware how difficult a time it is for the Golden Boy fighter, but knows what is needed to respond and ultimately fulfill your potential.

“It’s one fight and one step at a time. I think I can actually help Jason, not just in boxing but with what he has to go through,” he continues before prompting his new charge to return to eye catching performances.

“We want to work now to getting Jason to winning again and looking good winning. We have to show something to people in boxing in general to get excited about.”

Quigley is not the only fighter the former Manny Steward and Adam Booth trained middle will work with.

Lee trains and manages Paddy Donovan and will work ‘The Real Deal’s’ corner as he debuts at the Ulster Hall this Friday.

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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