Stephen McAfee aiming for Irish title following Polish pit-stop
After back-to-back domestic classics, Stephen McAfee [3(2)-0-1] steps somewhat out of the limelight this coming Saturday.
On the back of two entertaining and hard fought battles with Cork’s Colin O’Donovan the BUI Celtic super featherweight champion faces journeyman opposition on the ‘Celtic Clash 6’ card at Good Counsel GAA.
It’s only a temporary stop-off, though, for the Sallynoggin slugger who has gotten a taste for the more high profile fights has his sights set on another all Irish title fight.
McAfee doesn’t believe Damian Lawniczak will be a ‘gimme’ and thinks he will be tested by the notably game Pole. He is certainly taking the fight seriously but the Dubliner expects to win and wants a return to the bigger fights.
Indeed, the 27-year-old entertainer believes a fight with Kildare’s Allan Phelan might be one to entertain the fans and help him build a domestic legacy.
“The bigger the better that’s why I became a professional to be in big fights. I want to be remembered in the boxing world and leave my mark. This fight won’t be as big as last one but it’s a good challenge for me and won’t be easy,” McAfee told Irish-Boxing.com.
“After this fight I reckon it could be another big fight.”
“Allan Phelan is a very good fighter, I’m open to fight anyone that is put in front of me. I leave the decision making to my coaches Jonathan and Parkie, they know what is best for me .”
The build-up to the O’Donovan rematch was tetchy to the say the least but, upon reflection, ‘Showtime’ Ste enjoyed it and it could be that kind of hype that may have him eyeing up another domestic challenge after what will only be his fifth fight.
“Without a doubt, the build up to [the O’Donovan rematch] was unbelievable. It was everywhere on every social media and got some amount of veiws. It had everyone talking especially after the Round Zero. I can only benefit from being in situations like that it give me a taste to what is ahead of me.”
McAfee may not reflect on the build up as positively if he had lost and admits victory tasted sweeter after a bad blood build-up.
“I’m feeling great after my last fight delighted with the results and win. It was huge especially after the first fight. The first fight added much more value to the rematch. It was all about getting the win nothing else, the belt was a bonus,” he added before praising his rival who tops the bill this weekend in a BUI Celtic super bantamweight title fight with Carl McDonald..
“I thought I would never say this, but Colin is a true warrior and I have nothing but respect for him after sharing the ring with him twice. We have created some great moments and memories in Irish boxing, which won’t be forgotten and that’s what it is all about at the end of the day.”
