Introducing: Niall O’Connor

Niall O’Connor enters into the pro game looking to make up for a relatively undistinguished amateur career

The Dubliner is highly-rated in boxing circles and has been picked up for the pros by the knowledgeable Tony Davitt.

A committed fighter who has been boxing his whole life, O’Connor has competed a national Intermediate level

“I feel I was a huge underachiever as an amateur,” O’Connor told Irish-Boxing.com.

Outlining his background, the light welterweight detailed how “I’ve been boxing since a young age. My father used to box so it makes sense that I followed suit.”

“I started boxing in Ballybrack Boxing Club with my first ever coach Paddy Duffy. Transferred to Monkstown when I was 18 and I’v sparred and boxed some very good lads here and abroad so I know I have what it takes to compete at that level.”

O’Connor took a break from the sport earlier this year before being enticed back in, eventually ending up in the Tony Davitt stable alongside the likes of Crank Whitehouse, Shortty Carroll, John Joyce, and Johnny Corcoran.

The Dubliner explained how “it’s always been a dream to box as a professional, I never really had interest in other sports except for boxing.”

“Earlier on this year I took a break and, after having talks with the lads down in St Kevin’s Boxing Club Glasthule, they agreed that I could train there every morning – so when I linked up with Tony Davitt it just all fell into place.”

O’Connor’s underachievement in the vest can perhaps be explained by his fighting style, and he notes that “my style never really suited the amateur game, I have always been told that I had a very pro style.”

“I can box or I can stand toe-to-toe, I don’t mind mixing it up. It’s an accurate and relaxed style, exciting with big shots. ”

“Since I’ve started training with Tony I’ve learned a lot and can see improvements already. It’s more about sitting down on your shots and planting your feet.”

O’Connor looks set to debut on the Celtic Clash 3 card at the National Stadium on September 9th. The flame-haired fighter doesn’t want to look past his debut date, but is excited to join the rapidly expanding Irish scene.

“One fight at a time,” stressed O’Connor.

“I’d like to be involved in the domestic scene of course, but whatever Tony thinks best.”