Headline News

Nikitin replacement CONFIRMED – Conlan to make step up on massive Feile show

Diego Alberto Ruiz [21(10)-2] will man the away corner on the top of the massive Féile an Phobail on August 3. 

The Argentine was this afternoon confirmed as the man who will face Michael Conlan [11(6)-0] as he returns to fight in Belfast for the second time in his professional career.

The London and Rio Olympian was initially set to face Vladimir Nikitin in a Rio revenge clash, but the Russian last week pulled out through bicep injury.

Experienced names such as Sofiane Takoucht and European featherweight champion Andoni Gago were approached re stepping in, but it’s Ruiz who has been given the nod.

The Argentine doesn’t bring the same narrative as Nikitin, but it’s certainly a better fight for the Top Rank fighter in terms of a test and progressing toward a world title shot.

‘El Profeta’  won the vacant WBO Latino silver featherweight belt by beating compatriot Luis Emanuel Cusolito as recent as last month.

The Las Talitas native previously fought at super bantamweight, where he won both the interim and silver WBC Latino titles and is a two time national champion.

Ruiz hasn’t lost since losing out to Leonardo Bruno Cicopiedi by unanimous decision in June 2016, 10 fights ago and has produced five knockout victories in that time. 

 

The Falls Park hosted bout will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and on BT Sports.

Also appearing on the card will be Paddy Barnes, Sean McComb, Alfredo Meli vs. Araik Marutjan, Padraig McCrory, Callum Bradley, Seanie Duffy and Dee Sullivan all earning slots.

There is also a possibility an intriguing middleweight clash between Ballyfermot’s Luke Keeler and Philly’s Gab Rosado may play chief support.

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