Collins on McCloskey v Khan

14 April 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

The Irish bane of English world champions past believes Paul McCloskey can emulate his world title winning success and beat Amir Khan this Saturday night.

Former WBO middleweight and super middleweight champion of the world, Steve Collins has plenty of previous with the underdog tag as well big name English opponents. And more importantly the Celtic Warrior has experienced victory against world class English opposition and believes Dudey can emulate his disrobing of WBO champs Chris Pyatt and Chris Eubank in the MEN Arena.

The Dubliner claims the timing is perfect for the Dungiven man to dethrone King Khan and buckle the WBA light welterweight title around his waist. Collins, who also recorded an impressive double over Nigel Benn, believes the Derry Stylist is at his peak and could cause a massive upset in this weekends mega clash.

I have a good feeling about this. I just think there could well be an upset,” said Collins.

“I think this is the right fight at the right time for Paul McCloskey. Hes been cast as the underdog, but to me thats to his advantage. Hes 31 years old, hes got an undefeated record, hes coming off a number of stoppage wins, so he has got the confidence. His punching power is good too. What I like about Paul is he has dedication, he has heart and he has belief, Whether he has the experience and the knowledge to beat Amir Khan remains to be seen.

Collins also picked up on the fact that the former Olympian and reigning WBA champ has already begun discussion re a summer unification bout with Timothy Bradley.

The Irishman believes looking beyond your next challenge is a dangerous thing to do and it could play into the Dungiven mans hands on Saturday.

Amir Khan may look past Paul McCloskey. Hes already talking about a unification bout, which could be a big mistake. Having said all that, Amir Khans a super athlete and a super fighter, so can McCloskey catch up with him and land the big shot? We dont know, but Im confident.