Collins thinks Luke Keeler has tools to become next Dublin megastar

Trainer Paschal Collins believes that, in Luke Keeler [10(5)-2(1)], he has the next big Dublin headliner.

The Ballyfermot middle headlines the Red Corner Promotions ‘Inception’ card at the National Stadium on November 5th where he will face Welsh veteran Bradley Pryce for the BUI Celtic Warrior title.

While Collins still expects periodic fights on Matchroom shows, he wants ‘Cool Hand’ Luke to be built primarily in Ireland. The Celtic Warrior Gym boss also feels that his explosive second fight with Tom Doran has seen Keeler’s Dublin star rise even furter

Collins described how “Luke was always a big ticket-seller prior to the fight with Tom Doran, but I think since then his name is out there and people want to come see him.”

“I think he has the following in Dublin to headline shows in Dublin between himself and Stevie [Collins Jr].”

“Stevie has the posh crowd up in Castleknock and Luke has the Ballyfermot lads, we’ll have to seat them separate!”

“This time next year they could be stepping into bigger venues.”

“Hopefully the first of many show, hopefully it’s a success, and I think it will be because the list of fighters they have on the show is fantastic.”

First however Keeler must negotiate the challenge of Pryce next Saturday, and Collins hopes that it will be a win that will set the Dubliner off on the road to Dunne-esqe Irish stardom.

Collins outlined how “what I would love for Luke is to remain here in Ireland and for the lads [Red Corner] to move him along – get him on one or two shows in the UK – but move him along here in Ireland and become a main event fighter here.”

“I’d prefer for Luke to stay here in Ireland, have three, four, fights a year, but in four main events, and build him to a level where he’s becomes a headline act, get him a European title.”

“And then television will jump on board, because you know they all jump on the bandwagon.”