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‘I’m not scared’ – Conlan opponent Ruiz not coming for a pay cheque


Diego Alberto Ruiz is coming to Belfast to win and prove himself as an elite operator.

The Argentine was yesterday confirmed as one half of the top of the massive FĂ©ile an Phobail card- Michael Conlan being the other half.

‘El Profeta’ steps in for Vladimir Nikitin, who pulled out of the Rio repeat with a bicep injury, and will fight at the Falls Park come August 3rd.

In strange late replacement circumstances, it appears the London 2012 Olympic medal winner has been handed a much tougher test than he initially signed on for.

Nikitin was brought in as a narrative opponent, while he was a decent amateur he hasn’t looked overly impressive in the pros, indeed he looked downright poor.

The Russian’s name and the pair history did add to the event, but Ruiz brings a lot more to the table in terms of experience and even ranking potential.

The Las Talitas native won the vacant WBO Latino silver featherweight belt by beating compatriot Luis Emanuel Cusolito as recent as last month. He also won both the interim and silver WBC Latino titles and is a two time national champion- and while Nikitin has four por fights and wins to his name Ruiz has won his last 10 fights and 21 out of 23.

As a result he comes to Belfast assuring he isn’t your average late replacement.

He sees August 3rd as an opportunity rather than a pay day and claims he will be ready to answer any questions the Top Rank fighter may ask.

“This is the biggest fight of my career and a great opportunity to prove myself as a fighter. I fought June 1, and I am going to be ready for whatever Michael brings,” the Argentine explains.

“It won’t be an easy fight, but it is not an impossible task.”

Belfast will be the first city outside of Argentina Ruiz will fight in as a pro, but he claims traveling won’t be an issue.

“I am not scared to fight on the road. That is my motivation because the pressure will be on him.”

dpg

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