Barnes: Conlan going for gold in Rio

MICHEAL Conlan is one of the best amateurs in the World and will prove that in RIO 2016, suggests team mate Paddy Barnes.

Both Belfast fighters have qualified for the Olympics via the World Series of Boxing and both won bronze in London- and Barnes believes Conlan can go get gold in Rio.

The two time Olympic medal winner also believes the Belfast talent will turn pro after Rio.

“Not only is Michael one of the best boxers in Ireland he is one of the best boxers in the world,” says Barnes.

“I would say in the Irish team he is the most skilful boxer and he has a great, great chance to win a gold medal in 2016.

“What sets him apart is that he is always fit and he can fight in so many different ways, either southpaw or orthodox.

“The 2016 Olympics can be his time. In Rio he will be another year older, wiser and stronger and he will have improved even more. And the thing is I don’t think he needs to improve that much.

“I know Mick wants to turn pro in the future, so maybe after the Olympics you could see him do that.”