McBride chases Irish title

8 October 2010 – Jonny Stapleton

Irish heavyweight Kevin McBride admits competing in Prizefighter is not as risky as sharing a ring with Mike Tyson, but believes victory in the 14th edition of the all action tournament could prove just as rewarding as defeating the former heavyweight champion.

The Clones Colossus shocked himself and the world when he defeated the heavyweight legend in 2005 and plans to make the boxing world sit up and take note once more by collecting the 32,000 this weekend.

The six-foot-six, 20 stone fighter claims he will take full advantage of the notoriety victory on the fight night with a track record for re-launching careers will bring.

Like Belfasts inaugural Prizefighter winner, Martin Rogan, McBride, who told the Irish Mirror he will challenge Collie Barrett for the Irish title on November 20, is on a mission to become the first Irish born heavyweight champion of the world.

The American based puncher, who has been relatively inactive for the last four years, wants to emulate Audley Harrison by winning the tournament and then earning a World title shot.

McBride also dismissed rumours he was ready to draw a close to his fight career.

I am looking forward to Prizefighter, McBride told the Mirror. I am not going in there for the good of my health. There is a big carrot being dangled in front of me and I am going to grab it. Prizefighter will suit me. I wont have to go looking for fighters they will be there to fight and with my size and power I plan to take them out. I shocked everyone, including myself when I beat Tyson and I am going to do the same tomorrow. I am in it to win it and I am certainly not pulling the curtains on my career. I am going to make the most of the win.

I fight for my Irish title in November. I never lost that belt it was taken off me and I want it back. I also still dream of winning the World title and the aim is to get a World title shot like Audley Harrison did.

PRIZEFIGHTER HEAVYWEIGHTS IV DRAW

Matt Skelton v Ali Adams

Kevin McBride v Franklin Egobi

Michael Sprott v Danny Hughes

Declan Timlin v Shane McPhilbin