Kelly ready for action

3 February 2009 – By David Boyle

Irish-boxing.com caught up with Dundalks only professional boxer, Michael Kelly, to find out how preparations have gone for his showdown with Juris Ivanovs this coming Saturday at the Craigavon Leisure centre.

Michael has been training out of two gyms for this one. All his core training has been done out of Dealgan Boxing club in Dundalk, whilst his sparring sessions have been in Breens gym, Belfast.

Its been a busy six weeks, travelling three to four times a week to Belfast and then doing a night-time sessions in Dealgan, Michael says as he sips on a cup of tea.

Training has been great, though and I have felt so fresh and in love with the sport once more.”

Having struggled to secure fights since turning professional, the former World Military Champion hopes to stay as busy as possible over the next 12 months, showing off his talents.

I want to move up as quickly as possible, I know that this is going to be a tough fight but, realistically, I have bigger fish to fry,” he declares.

In his sights is a slot on the undercard of the O2 bill where Bernard Dunne will fight for a world title.

TV exposure is the key to getting known and it would be great to get on the O2 bill, if Brian Peters is happy with my performance then it can lead to things.,” he reasons.

This fight is at light-welterweight, whereas previously Kelly has campaigned at lightweight.

The fight being at light-welterweight doesnt bother me in the least,” he insists. “I am making the weight very easily and would have no problem getting down to the lightweight limit; however it doesnt matter now in just happy to be back in the ring.

Kelly hopes to have a good crowd in Craigavon to support him – including a busload of fans from his hometown.

You are only as big as your fans in this game, and I just want to put a show on and hopefully do Dundalk proud,” he states.

Finally, Michael spoke of those who have helped him get back to boxing.

Im very grateful to those who have been at my side through this long road back to boxing,” he explains.

John Breen has been great for giving me the sparring and as have Dealgan boxing club. They were my amateur coaches and have been very helpful to getting me back in shape, also have been other people who have motivated me and supported me to get me back to were I am now.

“To everyone, I’m truly grateful and hope to make them proud for putting their confidence in me.