McCloskey desperate for title action
Thursday, 17 July 2008
Paul McCloskey, eager for a title fight.
PAUL McCloskey is hoping that an impressive win over English Champion Nigel Wright on the Ladbrokes.com Fight Night at the University Arena in Limerick on July 19th will land him the title shot which he desperately craves.
The County Derry pugilist is unbeaten in 16 pro fights and he says he's ready for a title shot be that on the British, European or World stage.
“I feel I'm ready for anyone right now," said the Dungiven native. "I'm 28 so I don't have any time to waste and I'd jump at the chance of fighting for a major title."
McCloskey has watched with interest some of the major moves in the light welterweight division recently and he hopes to join the movers and shakers with a win over Wright.
“Things are changing all the time, the WBC, WBA, WBO titles have all changed hands recently as has the European title. I'd love a crack at any one of those guys. Ricky Hatton is still the top man in the division and that would be a dream fight for me. I was over in Manchester sparring his brother Matthew before his last fight and Ricky was training for the Lazcano fight. I would have loved the chance to spar Ricky as well but with me being a southpaw and Lazcano being orthodox it wasn't really an option."
Speaking of southpaws McCloskey has also been keeping a close eye on fellow portsider and British champion David Barnes who retained his title last weekend courtesy of a points win over former champ Barry Morrison.
“It wasn't the greatest of fights to be honest but Barnes did what he had to do. Morrison just didn't seem to have a plan B and you can be assured if I got a crack at Barnes I'd have plenty of plans up my sleeve. He's a good, solid fighter but I'd be very confident of beating him. He likes to fight at his own pace so I don't think he likes to be put under pressure."
