Murphy Lays down law in Oz

By Cormac Campbell

Brisbane based Newry Welterweight Paddy Murphy improved his professional record to 2-0 with a tough points victory over 46-fight veteran Mick Shaw in Queensland on Friday.

In doing so, Murphy learned just how tough life in the paid ranks will be, as his 35-year-old opponent used his strength and experience to disrupt the former Ulster Senior Champion’s rhythm with careless use of the head and tough in-fighting. Indeed, on two occasions during the four round contest at Fortitude Stadium, the former Sacred Heart star was thrown to the canvas. Murphy showed his class and appeared to have inflicted a legitimate knockdown of his own, only for the referee to deem the incident a slip.

Murphy was still a clear winner, with two judges giving him a shut-out 40-36 victory and the third scoring the contest 39-37.

Speaking to the Newry Reporter, Murphy said the rough and tumble nature of the contest will prove to be a useful experience as he steps up in class. “I’m feeling the effects of a scrappy war,” he said. “I learned a lot against a very experienced boxer. I really noticed the vast difference between amateur and pro. I got caught with the head a few times and was thrown to the canvas twice.

“But I’m happy to get the win and can take a lot from the fight. The support from over here and back home has been inspirational. It’s back to the gym Monday to get ready to go again in four weeks.”

Murphy’s next bout, against an as of yet unnamed opponent will take place in Hervey Bay, Queensland on October 29.