Big Tommy McCarthy wants to make a big statement when he fights on August 1st. The unbeaten [5(5)-0] cruiserweight prospect takes a big step up in class to face Courtney Fry [19(6)-7(3)] in Belfast’s Falls Park. McCarthy is part of a night of boxing promoted by Pat Magee that will open the annual Féile an Phobail festivities, now in their 28th year

Speaking to the Belfast Newsletter, McCarthy gave a few predictions ahead of his first headline show, promising that “fans can expect classy boxing and powerful shots.”

“Knock-outs have won my first five fights – and hopefully I get another one – but if it goes the distance, it goes the distance.”

“I want to make an impression on August 1 – but I know I have to get the win. That is the main thing.”

McCarthy knows he is for a tough fight against a man who has shared the ring with some top boxers, saying that “we are totally focused on Fry and I know this will be my hardest and toughest fight to date – but I am ready and preparation has gone really well.”

On Courtney Fry, McCarthy notes that “he is a good boxer and he has been around the block.”

“He is a known name and he has shared a ring with Roy Jones Jnr.”

McCarthy has no problems being matched tough so early in his career, admitting that “this is a test for me after five fights as a professional, but the fight will be an indicator of where I am at this stage of my professional career.”

Indeed the former elite amateur feels that a scalp against a known opponent so early in his career will be great for his career, believing that “when I beat this guy people will realise that Tommy McCarthy is the real deal and I am looking to show everyone what I have to offer.”

A West Belfast man himself, McCarthy is excited to be fighting in familiar surroundings, noting that “it’s great headlining a show so close to my house and loads of people have been asking me when I was fighting in Belfast – so there should be a good crowd on the night.”

And McCarthy is not the only exciting Belfast boxer on show next Friday night, explaining that “it is also great that my good mates Tyrone McKenna and Paddy Gallagher are in the bill.”

“There is also a strong undercard with McKenna, Gallagher, Joe Fitzpatrick, Alfredo Meli and Paul Quinn all fighting on the night.”

“All those guys are super talented, so it will be a good night of boxing in Belfast and hopefully they will all be home wins on the night.”