Hyland in line for Napa bout

10 December 2008 – By Mark Doyle

Promoter Frank Maloney has revealed that Irishman Paul Hyland is on course for a shot at European bantamweight champion Ian Napa.

‘Dappa’ Napa claimed the title with a thrilling majority points win over Carmelo Ballone in October and is set to defend it against an as yet unconfirmed opponent in January.

However, Maloney says that Irish bantamweight champion Hyland, who is in action on next weeks stellar card at Dublin City University, which also features the professional debut of Irish Olympic hero Darren Sutherland, could be granted a crack at Napa further down the line.

“Ian has a defence lined up next month, but after that it could be Paul’s chance, he revealed.

“I think Ian is the best bantamweight in Europe by a long way, but Paul is one of the rising contenders and a serious threat.

“If Paul keeps improving his chance to challenge for the European title will come sooner rather than later.

“Napa takes on all comers and what a night it would be if Paul faced Ian and Darren Sutherland boxed on the same bill.”