'Make or break' for McCloskey

PAUL McCloskey's upcoming title defence match could make or break his chances of a world title shot, promoter Brian Peters has said.

The Dungiven boxer, crowned light-welterweight European champion in November, is due to headline the Kings Hall on June 11 against Italian Gisueppe Lauri, currently ranked number 32 in the world. Speaking just three weeks before the bout, promoter Brian Peters told the Sentinel that the defence match would be McCloskey's biggest test yet.

"There's no doubt this is one of his toughest, cleverest, most experienced opponents," said Peters, "Lauri knows if he can beat Paul McCloskey he will get a world title shot so of all of a sudden the pressure is on."

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"God forbid if Paul loses he goes way back down the ladder, so you would have to say the opponent is the best he has fought and now there's expectations and expectations bring their own sort of pressure."

The promoter added: "Paul's a great story. He's a bit untapped, by day he works and by night he's one of the finest athletes in the world. Outside of the world champions you have a fella here who needs a bit more seasoning and hasn't got that many fights yet to move up into that class. A couple of more defences and he will reach for the best of them."

Former opponent and IBO World, European and British champion Colin Lynes has already been drafted over from the UK to train with McCloskey in the run up to the headliner. The 33-year-old Londoner, who was relieved by the Dungiven boxer of his British title in 2008, says he has high hopes for his former competitor.

"Paul does what he does very well with his elusive skills. If he keeps that going Lauri shouldn't be a problem. He's banging on the door for bigger and better things." commented Lynes, "If he gets rid of Lauri, he'll be up there with the others."

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As for McCloskey, the pressure may be on but the southpaw says the only thing he is focusing on is performing at his best.

"To me very fights a test - no matter who you are fighting. You can't under-estimate anybody or you can't over-estimate anybody. All you can do is be yourself and prepare as hard as you can."

McCloskey added: "I am studying Lauri and what he does. I know what he does and what way he fights but I'm focusing on what i do. I know if I go in there knowing what I can do, I'll do the job."

The sponsored Yanjing Beer Fight Night on Friday, June 11 will also feature a second title fight on the card when Lurgan's Stephen Haughian takes on former British Champ Kevin McIntyre for the Celtic Welterweight title. Rising Belfast star Carl Frampton will fight in his home town for the first time as a pro. The Fight Night will be live on Sky Sports and tickets are priced at 30, 60 and 90. For tickets or more information contact Julie on 07745698372 or Francie on 07803282224.

For an indepth feature on Paul McCloskey's training programme, see Pages 28 and 29.