DONEGAL middleweight Cathal McLaughlin is raring to go in the paid ranks, as his professional debut looms.
The 27-year-old is one of five fighters who will make their pro bow on the August 3 ‘Repeat or Revenge’ card, headlined by Tyrone McKenna’s rematch with Mohamed Minoune – who the west Belfast man defeated four years ago.
For McLaughlin, walking out at the SSE Arena will be the latest step on a rapid rise since bouncing back between the ropes during recent years.
Having boxed in his teenage years, the Strabane man headed off to university in Liverpool at 19. Despite the odd session in the famous Solly club, he largely stepped away from the sport for six years.
However, in a bid to get back into shape, McLaughlin reached out to Raphoe coach Gary McCullagh about returning to the ring 12 months ago – leading them on a rollercoaster ride that has brought him to the professional game under the watchful eye of Jason Quigley’s Sheer Sports.
McLaughlin – who will have McCullagh and Gerry Keaveney in his corner on August 3 - claimed the Irish senior title in impressive fashion at the National Stadium last year and, with his fan-friendly style, is determined to make a mark as quickly as possible.
“I think the style might suit me better, because I look to go forward, I like to fight inside,” he said.
“Also, I’m 27 now, I was offered the opportunity, why not just take it with both hands? I got chatting to Jason and it went from there – no better man to talk to either, he’s been there and done it.
“I just want to keep as active as possible from here on, stay injury-free and train as hard as I can. I’m going to try and get as much done as quickly as I can.
“It’s something different, and I’m really excited to make my debut and show what I can do. I’m ready to hopefully steal the show.”
