Last out in Dungiven turn all the lights off
Dungiven boxer Paul McCloskey won't be short of support in his bid for the European title in Magherafelt tonight with thousands expected to cheer him on.
The southpaw boxer faces Spanish champion Daniel 'Cobra' Rasilla for the prestigious European Light Welterweight title at the Meadowbank Sports Arena and he can't wait for the first bell.
"I have a job to do and I plan to do it. I'm hungry and I want to move on quickly," he told the 'Journal' yesterday.
The 30-year-old said knowing he has the home crowd behind him is "brilliant".
"I'm in great shape and I'm looking forward to it and I know everybody is behind me. When you are that focused you don't feel the support, but it can only be positive knowing everybody is behind me, maybe 3,500 people behind me, all for me. I'm delighted and I just want to get on with it."
Among the droves of fans leaving Dungiven this evening will be St. Canice's Amateur Boxing Club coach, Vinny Hargan. He's known Paul from when he was running around the club as a young boy aged eight. Paul stayed with Vinny until he turned pro four and a half years ago.
"He started boxing when he was 11 and he's kept improving," recalled Vinny.
"He wasn't what you would call a complete boxer, but he learned his trade well and improved every year as every boxer should. That's why he's here. As far as I'm concerned he's in very good hands tonight, his own hands."
He added: "Paul is a very down to earth fella. He still trains at the club and the young boys really admire him. It means a lot to them and we're all very proud of him."
Also hoping to be among the crowds tonight is Limavady Mayor, Sinn Fein councillor Cathal O'hOisin, who is from Dungiven.
"I've known Paul since he was a child and his complete and utter dedication to the sport," said Colr. O'hOisin.
"He is a great ambassador to young people and a great advertisement for St. Canice's Amateur Boxing Club. Throughout the years we have seen his total dedication, pounding the roads at six in the mornings. Hopefully he'll bring the European title back home and if he does it will be thoroughly deserved."
Regardless of Souleymane M'baye's late withdrawal, after 12 weeks of intense training McCloskey is focused to win the title.
"It's been a hard wee slog getting here, but I'm here now and I'm delighted to be fighting at home. I just want to thank everyone and all my sponsors; EuroXChanger, Carhill Car Sales, Eurospar, Dungiven and Texaco, Bridgend."
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Weather for Derry
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 14 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
