New pro Aaron O’Reilly sets his sight on Senan Kelly fight

Aaron O’Reilly has set his sights on a fight with Senan Kelly [2(1)-0].

The new to the game pro has yet to trade leather in a pro ring, but already has his sights on what could prove an intriguing Dublin derby.

The former MMA operator believes the Pete Taylor trained operator would be a good challenge and it appears like a fight he wants early doors.

Boxing Ireland’s Kelly has impressed in his two pro outings to date and has been open about wanting to test himself.

Whether or not it could happen first up for O’Reilly remains to be seen. He will most likely debut on the proposed Ring Kings II card, while Kelly will be tipped to populate the Celtic Clash 11 bill later in the year.

However, it a seed has been planted and it’s one that could be built.

Speaking to Boxing Bants O’Reilly said,

“One person that did stand out for me was actually one of Pete Taylor’s lads Senan Kelly. I would like to fight him. That would be an interesting fight. I have seen videos of him fighting, he is a good boxer and I’d like to test myself against him.”

The new pro comes from an MMA background and having enjoyed success there is targeting something similar in the boxing world.

As well as winning a Wako world title, Reilly is a pro K1 Irish champion at 63.5kgs and a 5 Nations champ at the same weight.

The young fighter has been a fixture of the St Michael’s Gym in Inchicore, where he has been a sparring partner for the likes of fellow new pro Ryan O’Rourke and BUI Celtic champion Victor Rabei – and now he feels he is ready to switch codes.

Although he admits he may need time to gain respect as a boxer.

“I think a lot of people are going to write me off because I don’t have any boxing experience.”