Spike itching for return

15 April 2010 – By Steve Wellings

Irish middleweight title champion Gary Spike OSullivan is itching to get back into the ring and extend his unbeaten record. The Cork native, trained and managed by Paschal Collins, won his belt in December 2009 with a points verdict over veteran Ciaran Healy, but the puncher has yet to feature in 2010.

Without doubt its a very frustrating time for me at the moment, Gary told Irish-boxing.com. Id like to be in the ring more often.

Paschal said there was the possibility of a few fights coming up but nothing has been confirmed as yet.

OSullivan has not been letting inactivity affect his fitness, Im chipping away in the gym keeping in shape, he said, I havent been sparring lately because Paschal doesnt want any wear and tear, so I dont spar unless Im preparing for a fight.

Theres a chance I could still be linking up with Frank Warren and fighting at Upton Park on May 15; Kevin Mitchell is fighting Michael Katsidis [for the Interim WBO lightweight title] and it would be a great card to get on to.

Following nine straight wins Gary met Belfasts Healy in Cork to contest the vacant domestic middleweight strap. OSullivan had problems containing the strength and work rate of Healy (who competed at super-middleweight in his most recent bout) but managed to land enough of his lauded power shots to claim a 98-94 victory.

As well as claiming his first major title, Gary also realised that the 11 stone limit was more suited to him than middleweight.

Ciaran Healy was tough and a bit bigger than me; I think Ill stay at light-middleweight from now on. Im still Irish middleweight champion though so I have options.

Im happy enough with my career so far, Ive been fairly successful, added OSullivan, its been literally ten out of ten.