Watch – James Tennyson opponent Josh O’Reilly in action against John Joe Nevin

Tonight won’t be the first time Josh O’Reilly shared the ring with Irish opposition.

The Canadian has strong Irish connections and has been a regular visitor to the country and Cavan in particular.

The world ranked fighter, who competes against James Tennyson in a world title eliminator tonight, was based here for a few months during his late teens.

During that time he trained in Cavan BC he even shared the ring with one of Ireland’s greatest amateurs on a club show.

A teen O’Reilly fought the London 2012 silver medal winner John Joe Nevin and like many at the time didn’t fare too well.

Recalling the fight, O’Reilly laughingly admits that “I got whooped!”

“I fought John Joe at 17 or 18 years old I believe, I only had about 20 amateur fights. It was a great experience. I met some great people and eventually wound up training down at Cavan BC for a few months.

Looking to bet on tonight’s fights – check out your options on Irish Free Bet.

Watch some footage from the fight below: