Cathy McAleer making improvements before making moves

Before her second pro bout, the talk was of World titles but Cathy McAleer [2(0)-0] knows there is a lot improving to be done before that goal is achieved.

Following another entertaining win at the Ulster Hall on Saturday gone, the fight veteran but relative boxing novice noticed the improvements she made since her debut and points out there are more to make.

The former kickboxing, karate and MMA fighter of note points out that she is still adapting to the sweet science under the stewardship of legendary Belfast trainer John Breen.

She claims Breen’s influence was apparent as she added Sonia Klos to her resume on the ‘A Night To Remember’ card. 

“I really enjoyed it. I tried to use more boxing skills instead of just going forward throwing a lot of punches,” reflected McAleer.

“I think it was a better fight than my debut fight. I showed a bit more skill.”

“I rocked her a couple of times and I probably could have continued to go forward but I felt it was a far better performance than my first fight and I look forward to the next one,” added the 40-year-old before going into further, interesting, detail.

“John worked on work rate and pace more than power. I worked getting my work rate up and doing more and, once we are in there, stay in there, instead of stepping out.”

“That’s another traditional karate style coming and out so I tried to stay in there whenever I was hitting her heavy I tried to regain myself and move off to the side.

“I could noticed a difference in my performance. I did rock her a couple of times, but she was durable. She took a lot!”

Although it was just McAleer’s second boxing fight it wasn’t her first time appearing in the Ulster Hall.

The ticket seller has competed their in previous codes and claims the venue is the best in Belfast.

“I fought twice in the Ulster Hall and I just love it. It’s the best place to box in Belfast. I fought once in the Odyssey which is a big venue, but the Ulster Hall is tighter knit and probably a more warm venue. I really enjoyed it,” she adds before admitting how much she loves to fight.

“I love it. I have being doing it since I was 9 and it’s something I really enjoy being competitive and that adreleline buzz is good too.”

Opportunities for female fighters come around quicker, with BUI Celtic titles fought over six rounds, Irish titles over eight, and even legitimate World titles over ten.

However, McAleer, whose dedication and appetite to improve have been praised by Breen, is aware that she is at the very start of that journey.

“It’s the start of a boxing journey,” she stated. “It’s only the start. I am aware of that and I need to improve myself every time.”

“I think that fight shows that I have improved. I think John is happy with the performance but there is a lot more to do.”

Commenting on what’s next, McAleer outlined how “it’s down to John what he thinks is best next.”

“I know Mark Dunlop has me for another two fights at least so it will be up to Mark and John to discuss what happens next.”

“I am happy to go along with whatever they come up with.”