Cruise claims he accepted offer to fight Keeler on Hatton show

Darren Cruise will add some Western interest to the June 25 Ricky Hatton show.

The Rosscommon native, who this month was involved in a tight, tense and entertaining super middleweight Irish title fight with Paddy McDonagh, is the fifth fighter confirmed on the bill.

Interestingly enough Cruise claims he was offered the chance to fight Dublin middleweight Luke Keeler, before Team Keeler elected against the clash.

‘Cool Hand’ is said to have a Sky date in and around the time of the FS Promotions and Hatton Promotions show, which considering Keeler has constantly revealed interest and willingness when it comes to Cruise may be the reason the fight wasn’t made.

However, the fact such a fight was on the table and on the minds of the promoters bodes well for Irish boxing and the new venture.

Cruise’s opponent has yet to be confirmed, but he is keen to challenge for the Irish middleweight title and despite coming in off the back of two defeats his stock has risen thanks to recent performances.

Considering FS Promotions have a working relationship with Chris Goodwin a rematch with Irish super middleweight champion JJ McDonagh might be an option.