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Sing when you’re winning – Harris backs his fans to win Ulster Hall sing off

The Welsh will win the fight and the sing off.

That’s the prediction of Jay Harris [16(8)-0] ahead of his anticipated clash with Paddy Barnes [6(1)-2(1)].

The undefeated Commonwealth and EBU flyweight king takes on the three time Olympian in the famously atmospheric Ulster Hall on October 11.

The venue and support should favour the local favourite on the night – and some suggest that could play a big part in what is expected to be a an all action blood and guts affair.

However, Swansea’s son, Harris warns he is bring a large crowd and a support that will make noise.

In fact the 29-year-old wouldn’t be surprised if his following is more vocal than the home support.

“Since this fight was announced, I’ve had a lot of good interest in people coming over from Wales to watch it,” explained Harris.

“Normally, the people I bring to come and watch me are really noisy so I imagine they will be having some sing-offs with the Irish!

“Belfast is a massive fighting city and I’ve seen some of the recent fight nights MTK Global have been putting on there on iFL TV.I couldn’t be more excited to box there. The atmosphere on the night is going to be absolutely amazing.”

While there may be some banter between the separate sets of supporters and some fireworks in the ring, Harris has gone to great lengths to show Barnes respect in the build up.

However, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t think he can win.

“I like Paddy and I have a lot of respect for him. I hope he has the same for me. We’ve sparred in the past and it’s been great. We get on so there’s no bad blood between us.”

“This is a big, big fight but I’ll approach it like any other fight. I just have to keep focused on the job at hand and I’m confident that I’ll come away with the win on the night.”

Joining Harris vs. Barnes on a stellar bill is Sean McComb vs. Emiliano Dominguez, Marco McCullough vs. Viorel Simion, Terry Flanagan vs. Michael Ansah, Lewis Crocker, Gary Cully, Pierce O’Leary, Paddy Donovan, Sean Duffy and Ruari Dalton.

Derek McKenna

Co-founder of Junior Sports Media who has been covering boxing since 2013. Has extensive experience in sports writing, sub-editing and online journalism. Email: Co-founder of Junior Sports Media who has been covering boxing since 2013. Has extensive experience in sports writing, sub-editing and online journalism. Email: thejuniorsoccerportal@gmail.com

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