Keeler secures Prizefighter slot

By Jonny Stapleton

SANTA it seems was good to Luke Keeler this year.

The Irish middleweight prospect was on the boxing nice list after an impressive run of wins in 2014 and has been rewarded with a place in the next Prizefighter tournament.

Unbeaten ‘Cool Hand Luke’ was the recipient of a whole lot of Eddie Hearn love after he stopped Gary Boulden on Matchroom’s November Dublin show and the Promoter is ready to hand the Ballyfermot favourite a chance to take a significant stride forward in his career.

Middleweight, Keeler, watched as Gym mate Jono Carroll defied 14-1 outsider odds to claim the lightweight version of the trophy in December and will be looking to emulate his fellow Pascal Collins trained puncher in the New Year.

The career changing tournament has been won by four Irish fighters in Martin Rogan, Willie Casey, Eamonn O’Kane and Carroll and Keeler will be hoping to become the fifth.

Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn had looked to set up shop on a regular basis in Dublin, but plans were slowed down by Matthew Macklin’s reverse in the 3Arena in November.

Having two recent Dublin Prizefighter winners, however might add weight to the return to Dublin argument, although a more established headline act will most likely be needed.

The Prizefighter middleweight tournament has been confirmed for February 14th in Blackpool.