McLaughlin ready to follow in Mayweather’s footsteps

Michael McLaighlin claims he is ready to follow in the footsteps of fight greats Floyd Maywaether and Paul Spadafora by beating Sam Girard on the 27 of next month.

The Donegal native challenges the American for the vacant light middleweight New Engalnd title and is confident like the two fighters who went on to win world titles and in Maywather’s case to dominate the sport, he too can over come the fight veteran.

That confidence is well placed considering Girard hasn’t fought since 1998, but sabbatical aside McLaughlin claims any man that takes Spad the distance deserves respect.

“This challenge does excite me,” he told Irish-boxing.com. “He has fought Floyd and he’s also fought Paul Spadafora and went the 12 rounds with him, so he’s definitely an experienced fighter.He has been out of the game a while, but I will be 100% focused.”

Mayweather stopped McLaughlin’s upcoming foe in two and out doing him would prove difficult, but McLaughlin did hint he could get the stoppage in his first title fight.

“Floyd stopped him in the second but I’m not going go say ill do the same or better. I’m ready to do the 8 rounds if need be, but in, saying that I think my speed and power will b to much for him. I’m as fast as a featherweight and hit like a heavyweight.” 

It is not just the illustrious company previously held by his opponent that makes the 29 year old’s 11 fight something to look forward too, McLaughlin is also excited by the prospect of buckling a belt around his waist.

“It feels great to be fighting for the New England title as its a big title over here and to win it will be a great feeling. It will help me to push on to bigger things too. I have been training hard and for this fight.  I have changed up my conditioning and joined the Dorchester CrossFit 617 and I think that will give me the extra strength and fitness that I need for this fight.”

 Cheers!