‘I’m dying for that fight’ – Conroy wants Golden Contract FOTY repeat with Steven Ward

Liam Conroy readily admits he’s relishing the prospect of renewing hostilities with Steven Ward in the GoldenContract.

Conroy and Ward put on a 2019 Fight of the Year candidate in Belfast back in June with the ‘Quiet Man’ [12(4)-0] emerging with the WBO European light-heavyweight crown courtesy of a narrow technical decision.

Ahead of Wednesday’s all-important quarter final draw, the ever entertaining Conroy [17(9)-5(2)-1] is hopeful of a chance at revenge.

“I’d love to fight Ward again. It’s no secret that I’m dying for that fight! I feel like it’s got to happen again – whether it’s in or out of this tournament.”

The English fighter wasn’t disputing the result in the back and forth scrap, but does feel he has the beating of the much liked Jamie Moore trained fighter.

“Steven showed great heart and boxed brilliantly in our first fight but I feel we have unfinished business. It’s nothing personal towards him, obviously.

“I’m competitive and I feel that it would be a winnable fight for me. I like Steven – he’s a nice bloke but I feel we should do it again, definitely.

“I’ve not really thought about who I’ll get first in the competition. I won’t avoid anyone – I’ll just get in there and give it my best whoever I face.”

Conroy is one of eight fighters vying it out for a five fight six figure deal with a promoter rumoured to be Top Rank, but still holds British title aspirations.

“Beyond that, I still really want to win the British title one day. I feel short against Joshua Buatsi but it could still be there for me. I feel like I’m at that level so I’m hoping to win this tournament then fight for that belt against another big name.”

Joining Conroy in the draw as well as Ward are Hosea Burton, Bob Ajisafe, Tommy Philbin, Serge Michel, Andre Sterling and Ricards Bolotniks.

The quarter-finals take place next Saturday night at The Brentwood Centre – live on Sky Sports in the UK in association with Matchroom Boxing and on ESPN+ in the US in association with Top Rank.