By Diarmuid Sherry

Irish-American, Danny McDermott returned to the ring for the first time in 15 months, with a facile win against Dmitrijs Ovsjannikovs. The boxer from Jersey City brought over world rated Light Heavyweight, and fellow Irish-American, Seanie Monaghan to work his corner. Referee, David Walshe scored the contest 60-54.

Although the bout was at middleweight, both contestants did not seem the best of shape, and at 36 years old McDermott was actually the younger man by 5 years.

The fight was fought at MccDermott’s pace, which wasn’t particularly quick, yet seemingly quick enough for the Latvian import, who was breathing very heavily by the second.

McDermott was working well with his fluid style of boxing, annoying Ovsjannikovs repeatedly with his jabs, which he often doubled or tripled.

By the fourth round, McDermott started to speed up the contest, and created openings against his taller opponent. His targeted straight one-twos were hitting the mark consistently, as Ovjannikovs could not let go of his shots.

The sixth and final stanza saw McDermott try to claim a stoppage victory, and he hurt the Latvian visitor of an overhand left which stunned the visitor back to the ropes.

Ovsjannikovs, also was trying for the knockout, realising it was the only hope of victory. The pair pleased the watching audience in the final minute, slugging it out with each other. Ultimately though, McDermott was pleased to notch a win on his return to the ring.