Headline News

‘I think we could do something incredible’ – Foley doubles down on legendary derby prediction

If Tyrone McKenna [18(6)-1-1] is willing to fight then the famous Ulster Hall could be in for another famous night predicts Darragh Foley [17(9)-3-1].

The MTK counterparts will trade leather in a bout Foley has previously stated will go down as the greatest ever Dublin versus Belfast derby – and just over a week out from the clash he is sticking to that prediction.

The Australian based Blanch native is confident the light welterweights can produce ‘something incredible’ live on ESPN+ next Friday night.

“I’ll walk out to the middle of the ring and if he does the same, so be it. I think we could do something incredible in there and I’m just so excited,” says one Irish boxing’s best fight builders.

“This is the most exciting all-Irish title fight on paper for a long, long time and I’m up for creating history.”

A lot has been made of ‘home advantage’ in recent  weeks and ‘Mighty Celt’, McKenna has warned his rival to be ready for a hostile reception.

mckenna foley

However, ‘Super’ claims he isn’t worried and explains he will feed of the crowd vibe be it hostile or welcoming.

“I know he’s got a good following but it doesn’t matter. Noise is just noise and whether they’re singing for him or singing for me, I’ll feed off them.

“I’ll bring a good crowd of my own so it’ll be a tasty environment in there.”

The home element isn’t lost on Foley either. Next Friday’s #MTKFightNight represents his first fight as a pro in Ireland and he is keen to impress on his homecoming.

“This fight means a lot to me. I’ve never fought on Irish soil as a professional so I’m really looking forward to it. I’ll prove to everyone what I’m about,” he adds before stressing he still has top level aspirations.

“I genuinely believe I can still go on to knock on the door of world level. I genuinely believe I’m a great fighter and I’m looking forward to showing everyone that on the night.”

Also on the bill is a WBO European light-heavyweight title fight between Steven Ward and Liam Conroy, while welterweights Paddy Gallagher and Liam Wells clash in an intriguing match-up.

The likes of Lewis Crocker, Taylor McGoldrick, Caoimhin Agyarko and Owen O’Neill make up a busy undercard.

dpg

logo may

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

x