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Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Belfast boxer on Michael Conlan card was almost forced to quit sport he loves

Belfast boxer Conor Quinn admits it is a dream for him to be fighting on "the biggest show" in town this weekend.

Quinn is on the undercard of Michael Conlan's massive world title fight with Luis Alberto Lopez at the SSE Arena.

It is the 25-year-old's seventh fight as a professional after five wins and one draw so far on his record. His opponent will be Spanish boxer Juan Hinostroza who brings a winning record to the ring (11-10-2).

Read more: Conlan vs Lopez TV and live stream info for Saturday's world title fight

Flyweight Quinn almost had to quit the sport he loves when an MRI scan showed evidence of a stroke during his early life. Follow-up tests revealed it was linked to a hole in the heart.

Quinn underwent successful keyhole surgery and is now back fighting and climbing the ranks.

"It was two years ago when I reapplied for my British boxing licence. I had some medical issues and was told I would never box again," the Beechmount native said.

"And here we are two years later, I am about to fight on the biggest show in Belfast. So I am all positive.

"It just shows that not everything you're told is true and you can fight for anything. And me being here proves that."

He added: "This is a a dream for any young fighter and I can't wait for Saturday night.

"I have been sparring with Sonny Edwards. He is the best in the world so you can't get better sparring.

"I just want to keep improving and building momentum."

Conlan Boxing promoter Jamie Conlan believes big things lie ahead for Quinn following his return from that health scare.

"Conor grew up two streets away from me and Michael. It is great to see him progressing," he said.

"He took himself off to Australia to build his career and stand on his own two feet. Mark Dunlop (Quinn's manager) has massive plans for him.

"Conor takes on a really tough Spanish fighter on Saturday night, someone who fought Paddy Barnes, so there is a bit of a connection there.

"Hopefully this can lead to titles for Conor."

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