‘Dean Clancy for Tokyo 2020. You have heard it here first’ – Teen talent has instant Olympic dream

“Dean Clancy for Tokyo 2020 you have heard it here first,” that was the bold statement from a delighted new Irish 57kg champion on Friday night.

Clancy overcame Patryk Adamus on a split decision 4-1 in a tight fight of the night contender to claim his first Elite Irish title at the National Stadium.

The Sligo youngster was understandably delighted with his success and heralded it as a ‘dream come through’.

However, the dreaming didn’t stop there for the new name on the trophy, the teen quickly set himself an Olympic goal.

With reigning European Champion, Kurt Walker on the scene, but missing the Championships through illness, many would have expected the Sean McDermott’s man to set himself a Paris 2024 target.

However the confident underage graduate claims he is heading for Tokyo.

“Dean Clancy for Tokyo 2020 you have heard it here first,” Clancy said after his win.

“It has been a truly great year and I believe the training I have done with my father has just taken me to another level. it boosted my confidence levels,” he added.

While there was bold predictions post the win there was also youthful exuberance and sheer delight.

There may be a lot more still to be achieved for the Sligo fighter, who turned 18 just a number of weeks ago, but you get the feeling Friday’s win will always prove special.

“It’s a dream come through, I have dreamt of this night  since I was a little kid and for it to happen tonight is special.”

“I got a picture here with Andy Lee a few years ago and now to have him commentating on one of my fights it is an absolute honor, Every time I step in there its an honor. I just love to get in the ring and I love the crowd too.”

It was a brilliant ending to another medal laden year for one of a number one of a number for first time champions last Friday.

“I won the under 18s in August and the Seniors three weeks ago and now this is just the cherry on top. I only just turned 18 three weeks ago, It is truly a dream come through.”

The official decision was split but Clancy believed that he won it outright.
“I thought the decision should have been 5-0 but sure look, I got it done and that’s the important part,” he added before expanding on the game plan.

“I just got behind my jab and kept him long. We thought he was going to try and drag me into a war but I just boxed and it worked tonight.”