Timsey open to Watkins Irish title clash – but reveals that he has another big fight first

Ian Tims [12(3)-3(2)] says he is ready to challenge Luke Watkins [9(5)-0] for the Irish Cruiserweight title, but believes he will have to overcome a big challenge in February for that to happen.

The Tank, who saw a fight in Liverpool cancelled at the weekend, claims MGM have told him a ‘known name’ awaits in the new year and, such is the draw of this yet to be confirmed opponent, that it takes precedence over a bout with ‘The Duke’.

Paddy Fitzpatrick, the Clare manager of the Swindon-based puncher of Wexford descent, is hoping to put the title clash on in England on St Patrick’s weekend and remains open to having it playing out on one of the two big New York cards that weekend.

Former Irish amateur and pro champion Tims is keen, but says his focus looks set to be on a big clash in late February.

“I like Paddy. He seems a good bloke and I heard about that fight. Why not? He [Watkins] is a good fighter and it’s a good fight and I would like it, but it looks like I have this other fight to deal with first.”

The straight-talking former EU title challenger wasn’t too forthcoming with details of who the clash will be against, but it is be safe to predict that it’s a long-rumoured bout with fellow MGM fighter Steven Simmons, a boxer that beat the Clondalkin puncher in the amateurs, but only a day after ‘The Tank’ had himself beaten Tony Bellew.

“The team want me to fight in a big fight against a known name. I am not saying who it is, but I am sure people will guess.”

“There was talk of it for this month, but I wanted a few cobweb-removers. Then the team pointed out a few things and they were right, so it looks like early next year. I am not getting any younger, I am in good shape now, these are the fights I want, so why wait? I would be confident going into it.”

“Listen, I know if I am fit and ready I can give anyone a fight.”