Ormond in action
4 December 2010 – Jonny Stapleton
Stephen Ormond is on course to become the first Dublin born Commonwealth champion of the new century.
The Clondalkin native fights French southpaw Sebastien Cornu in a lightweight contest on the under card of Ricky Burns first world title defence tonight-and is fast closing in on the Commonwealth crown.
Ormond, who was tipped to take up the mantle as Irelands top fighter when Bernard Dunne retired, had seen his career stall of late but is back on course for the top after signing with Frank Warren.
The experienced English promoter has promised the former Irish amateur champion a shot at young Commonwealth champ John Walsh next year and Ormond believes his new promotional deal will enable him to finally fulfil his potential.
The sky’s the limit for me as a pro. I want major titles in the long term and in the short term the Commonwealth belt is a good starter, Ormond told Mirror Sport.
It is great working with Frank Warren. I can sit back and focus on fighting and he is getting me the fights. He has already said if I win this fight and one or two more he will get me that Commonwealth shot. I am delighted with how this year has finished and hopefully I can keep busy next year and get that title shot. This fight is a stepping stone toward Liam Walsh and the Commonwealth title, the former New York based fighter added.
If former St Matthew’s amateur is to secure a bout with Walsh, who is also promoted by Warren, victory over Cornu will certainly help. The French puncher took the current champion the distance in an six round fight earlier this year.
I am confident going into this fight. I am feeling good and I really trained hard. I am fighting a southpaw from France but he isnt a slick southpaw he is come forward fighter so at least I wont have to go looking for him. He boxed the Commonwealth champion, Walsh two fights ago and went the distance with him. I wont be looking for the stoppage but if it comes I will be happy and it will be good to better Walsh too.
