Donnelly aiming to make big impression at Olympics

Ireland's Steven Donnelly (red) in action against Russia's Khariton Agrba (blue)
during the Ballymena boxer's final fight on Irish soil in Dublin on Friday night, prior to heading to the Olympic Games in Rio. Picture: INPHO. — Ireland's Steven Donnelly (red) in action against Russia's Khariton Agrba (blue) during the Ballymena boxer's final fight on Irish soil in Dublin on Friday night, prior to heading to the Olympic Games in Rio. Picture: INPHO.

The Ballymena boxer is putting the finishing touches to his preparations for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

At the weekend he made his final appearance on Irish soil before heading to Brazil as he competed in a Test international against a Russian team at the National Stadium in Dublin.

Donnelly announced himself on the international stage when he won a bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and he has since gained more experience in the World Series of Boxing.

Shannon Gordon, of Ballymena Credit Union, presents a sponsorship cheque to Ballymena boxer Steven Donnelly to assist in his preparations for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Now the Dunfane man is relishing the chance to lock horns with the best welterweights from around the world in south America.

“There’s not an easy fight at 69 (kilograms) this summer.

“I wouldn’t watch videos (of other boxers) or anything, I go with the flow and don’t care who I get in Rio, it is what it is.”

“The way I see it is that I’m in a win-win situation.”

“Training has been going great. I never stop, I’m always in good shape.”

“I’m going to the Olympics representing my country. It’s going to be fantastic to be part of the best sporting event on the planet.

“I’m not going to make up the numbers though - I’ll shock the division in Rio!”

“I never thought I would have got there due to a few circumstances, but I always knew I had the talent. To get there after what I’ve been through makes it more special.”