Introducing: Callum Bradley

A multiple-times national champion and an Irish international, the turning pro of Callum Bradley raised a few eyebrows.

Only 19 years of age, the Tyrone featherweight becomes one of the youngest pro fighters but there is no drama associated with his crossing over.

There was no controversial decision that disheartened him, boxing’s precarious position in the Olympics hasn’t been playing on his mind, and there wasn’t a ‘fall out’ with the IABA or anything like that.

No, Bradley instead ditches the vest to fulfil his one and only dream in boxing.

The Sacred Heart Omagh graduate has linked up with management outfit Mack The Knife Global and will fight out of Belfast, joining Ray and Mark Ginley’s stable of fighters which also includes the likes of Lewis Crocker and Padraig McCrory – although he will remain close to amateur coach Adam Hunter.

Bradley explained to Irish-Boxing.com that “I’ve decided to go pro now because I feel its the right time.”

“Yes, I’m only 19, but I was getting bored of the amateur game, it was the same thing every year.”

“I never thought about to the Olympics, my goal was always to become a professional world champion so it wasn’t tempting to stay amateur.”

That’s not to say Bradley didn’t have success in the amateur game and he details how “I had a great amateur career, I had around 100 fights and only lost 12 or 13 times.”

“I won three All-Ireland Titles and represented Ireland on a few occasions including the [2015, Junior] European Championships in Ukraine.”

Bradley will debut on the Luke Keeler v Conrad Cummings rematch undercard at the Ulster Hall in Belfast on Friday March 29th.

Fighting alongside fellow Tyrone man Cummings, Bradley is promising to put in a stylish performance at the iconic venue.

The talented teen said that “I’d describe my fighting style as ‘hit and don’t get hit’.”

“I like to counter punch but I can also go forward and go toe-to-toe.”

Bradley enters the pros with big ambitions but also with a level head.

The Ulster youngster, brother of Conor McGregor sparring partner Tiernan, is not looking to jump on the fast track or calling for quick title shots and acknowledges that he has a lot to learn.

Bradley outlined that “my short term goals is to just get as much experience as I can and learn new things in the gym and in my fights.”

“The professional game is different from the amateurs so I’ve loads to learn.”

“Long term goal is to become world champion, I genuinely believe I’ve the talent, dedication and the right team behind me to go all the way.”

“I’m excited and I cant wait to show everyone what I’m all about on March 29th – follow the journey!”