Red Corner back Blaney ahead of title opportunity

Probably the best brought along of all the new Irish pros, Navan super middleweight Chris Blaney [8(3)-0] goes for his first title in just over two weeks time.

Since debuting 15 months ago, the Ricky Hatton-trained fighter has fought eight times – stepping up to six-round level and tougher opponents for his three most recent bouts.

Now Blaney will go for the BUI Celtic title on Saturday October 7th in one of the chief support bouts of the Red Corner ‘Champions Elect’ card at the National Stadium in Dublin.

‘The Ginger Ninja’ faces a tough test at the home of Irish boxing where he will take on Frenchman Matiouze Royer [17(4)-30(5)-6] over eight rounds.

While Royer’s record may look patchy, he has proven himself to be a game away opponent. Over the years he has gone the distance with European champion Christopher Rebrasse, upcoming WBSS participant Jamie Cox, and reigning European middleweight champion Emanuele Blandamura. In addition to this he has reached the final of the Tournoi De France.

Red Corner Promotions boss Jonathan Graham knows the calibre of the Bayonne boxer and stated that “this is a good fight because, simply put, despite what critics may say, Royer has been in with a higher level of opposition than Chris.”

“He’s fought former European champions. He’s been in with lads who’ve boxed at title level before and taken them all the distance. Arguably even beaten some of them.”

With that said, the young promoter believes that Blaney is well able for ‘The Tank’ – and backed the Meath man to prevail in his biggest fight to date.

Graham added that “Blaney has done his pro apprenticeship now. He’s went in there and got the job done no matter what the circumstance.”

“We feel it’s right by Chris to give him this opportunity and he’s going to grab it in style.”

Photo Credit: Laszlo Geczo Photography