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Steve Ormond has to “get everything right” for must-win Craig Evans clash

While he may be a tireless gym rat who has pointed out that he is in the best shape of his life, the fact remains that the clock is ticking for Steve Ormond [24(13)-3(1)].

The Dublin lightweight turned 34 last month and is at a stage in his career where every fight could be his last.

Ormond is still targeting a world title shot, but he knows that any loss will prove fatal to his career.

So, it will be all-or-nothing for ‘The Rock’ on June 17th.

Here, at the Waterfront Hall on the BoxNation ‘Battle of Belfast’ card, Ormond challenges WBO European champion Craig Evans [16(3)-1(0)-2].

While it is billed as a 50-50 pick ’em, as well as a guaranteed war, Ormond knows that it is more than just a fan-friendly TV fight.

“I have to win it,” Ormond agreed at the Belfast press conference to launch the card yesterday.

“I believe I have to, so I’m going to put a performance on to make sure it happens. It’s one of those fights. I have to put the head down and get everything right.”

The crucial nature of the bout wont lead to a change in approach for Ormond. It’s not going to be a cagey affair, he wont look to sneak rounds on the jab, it’s going to be an all-action affair.

Ormond outlined that “it’s going to be an exciting fight.”

“I know Craig years. I boxed with him on the undercards of Frank Warren shows. I’ve a lot of respect for him and I’m going to bring my best.”

“He’s very tough, tough to fight, he’s like me, so it’s going to be explosive.”

“It’s going to be a great fight, it’s a brilliant fight for TV.”

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)

In addition to Ormond-Evans, the bill next month also features Jamie Conlan, Steven Ward, Lewis Crocker, a WBO European title fight between Paddy Barnes and Silvio Oltneau, and an IBF super featherweight title scrap between Jono Carroll and Johnny Quigley.

Tickets for the night cost £30, £40, £60, and £150, and are available from the boxers involved.

LISTEN: Mick Conlan joins Gavan Casey and Joe O’Neill on Episode 4 of The Irish Boxing Show

Joe O'Neill

Reporting on Irish boxing the past five years. Work has appeared on irish-boxing.com, Boxing News, the42.ie, and local and national media. Provide live ringside updates, occasional interviews, and special features on the future of Irish boxing. email: joneill6@tcd.ie

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