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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
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Gareth Fullerton

Padraig McCrory ready to make Belfast proud in Germany

Padraig McCrory insists he will make Belfast proud when he challenges for a world title in Germany.

The 34-year-old will travel to the back yard of Leon Bunn on October 22 to fight for the vacant IBO world light-heavyweight belt in Frankfurt.

It is a massive opportunity for McCrory whose fairytale career continues to gather pace.

Read more: Belfast boxer on the 'shocking' true cost of the fight game

A late starter to the pro game, not many would have predicted his stellar rise through the ranks.

"I am 34 and I feel I have improved more in the past four years than I have in my whole career," he told Belfast Live.

"It is about being consistent and staying dedicated and taking on board what my coach tells me.

"I don't think my opponent has fought anyone at my level and I feel I have fought better opponents. He might have a bit of size and strength over me but I don't think he has more power.

"It is a very winnable fight for me."

McCrory's rising popularity has seen over 100 fans already book flights to Germany for his latest acid test.

Affectionately known as 'The Hammer', the West Belfast native admits he has been overwhelmed by the support.

"I am going to Germany six weeks before Christmas during a cost of living crisis," he added.

"I am bringing over 110 people to Germany to watch me fight. I feel very privileged to have such a close-knit fan base and family and friends to enable me to do that.

"I don't want to let my friends and family down. And I don't want to let Belfast and and greater community down.

"It has been a great journey, and now I am on the verge of achieving what many, including myself, didn't think I could.

"But I firmly believe this is my time and I am ready to take my chance."

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