Hearn: Irish fight fans could play a major part as Macklin faces tough fight
SUCH is the challenge that Jorge Sebastian Heiland will bring come Saturday night Matthew Macklin might need Irish fight fans to get him over the line, claims Eddie Hearn.
Three time world title challenger is favoured to beat the Argenitine in their 3Arena hosted WBC World title eliminator and most experts expected a home victory come Saturday night.
Hearn, however, warns victory won’t be routine and claims an extremely motivated Heiland has the abilty to cause the former Irish, British and European champion problems.
The Matchroom boss was shocked to see odds as high as 7-1 on a fighter who boast a higher WBC ranking than Macklin and warns the Irish middleweight is ‘up against it’ as he brings big time boxing back to Ireland.
“This is a really great fight. I don’t think Jorge Sebastian Heiland has been given the credit he deserves. We know just how tough this fight is,” said Hearn.
“This is a serious fight, an official eliminator for the WBC middleweight title. Matthew is really up against it in this fight. It is a tough fight against a fighter on a great run, someone who is very determined. Basically a World title fight for Heiland.
“How he is a 7-1 shot is beyond me. He is the one coming into this fight with form and freshness. This is very close fight. A lot depends on what Matthew has left in the tank and how much desire he has left. In saying that I think he will show what he has left at world level.”
If Heiland as expected come out fighting and produces a desire enhanced display Hearn believes home advantage could play a part.
The Matchroom promoter, who is hoping the Irish support create an atmosphere that will impress Sky Sports, called on Irish fight fans to cheer Macklin to victory and back into the World title frame.
“I know Matthew is very excited about fighting here in Ireland and I think the Irish fight fans will play a huge part in pushing him over the line on Saturday night.
“He needs all the support, noise and passion to help him get the job done and move a step closer to a world title shot.”
