Up The Déise – Waterford light heavyweight turns pro
The pro ranks in Irish boxing have been boosted again with the addition of another solid name from the amateurs.
It has been confirmed this evening that Waterford light heavyweight Rhys Moran is to make the move to the pro game.
Fighting out of the St Paul’s club, Moran was an Irish Youth champion and represented the country internationally, including at the European Youth Championships.
Now 20, the Déise puncher has been enjoying plenty of success at Box Cups in recent years but was left disheartened with the amateur game following a loss in the semi-finals of the Irish U22 Championships in January.
Following this split-decision defeat to Sean Conroy, Moran hinted at a move to the pros and has confirmed as much tonight.
Adopting the nickname ‘The Kid’, Moran announced on social media that he is to make the switch.
Moran said that “after long consultations with various trainers and promoters, I’ve made the decision to turn over to the pros.”
“I have picked the pest people to be in my corner and I’m already excited to be working with them.”
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support throughout my amateur career and I hope you will continue to support me in the future.”
A strong southpaw with skills, Moran looks a very good addition to the scene.
Pro boxing is booming in Waterford currently, with Dylan Moran, Rohan Daté, Barry Barnes, Craig McCarthy, and Michael Duggan all representing the Déise, with shows in the pipeline for the city in 2019.
The Port Lairge puncher is the latest amateur convert of 2019 following Callum Bradley, Sean Duffy, Declan Kenna, Paul McDonnell, Randal Barlow, Robbie Burke [1(1)-0], and Katelynn Phelan.
Debut details for Moran will be revealed in due course.
