Dennis Hogan hoping to emulate sparring partner Jeff Horn

Jeff Horn went from obscurity to world notoriety when he grabbed his “once in a lifetime” chance and defeated boxing legend Manny Pacquiao to become WBO World welterweight champion.

Now the Australian schoolteacher wants to help his Irish teammate Dennis Hogan [25(7)-1(0)-1] do the same.

Granted Kildare man Hogan hasn’t been given the chance to fight an all time great or to challenge for a World title, but victory in his first fight of 2017 will put him in prime position for a World title tilt.

A win over WBO #9 Yuki Nonaka at the Brisbane Convention Centre on Saturday October 14th will essentially secure Hogan WBO title mandatory status and will see ‘The Hurricane’ move a step closer to the big fight he craves.

Irish-Boxing.com have been led to believe that the WBO have confirmed a win over the Japanese fighter will guarantee the Kilcullen boxer a World title shot – and while Miguel Cotto has the chance to claim the title this month with victory over #6 Yoshihiro Kamegai the fight legend is expected to vacate and retire should he, as he is expected to, win.

Team Hogan believes if that happens they will then fight the winner of the #2 v #4 battle between Liam Williams and Liam Smith – who rematch in Newcastle on October 28th

So there is direct path to a World title shot there for 32 year old Hogan and gym mate Horn – who sparred with the WBO #3 in preparation for his shock win over the Pac-Man and is back in the gym readying himself for a rematch – has said he will be there to guide him along that road.

“I am sure he will soon turn that heart into a World title belt. There are no egos at our Stretton Boxing Club,’’ Horn told the Courier Mail.

”Everyone is trying to help each other and we all want to see Dennis crowned world champ.’’

Hogan, now trained by Glenn Rushton – who received international praise for his cornerwork during Pacquiao Horn – is loving his new surroundings.

“Training alongside Jeff Horn is a real inspiration,” said the lilywhite

”I’ve learned a lot from the loss to Culcay and Jeff has inspired me to win a world championship of my own.’’

Kildare Boxing is proudly sponsored by Liffey Crane Hire.