Dominant Eric Donovan defeats Gonzalez in Dublin headliner

Eric Donovan topped the bill for the third time in 2017 tonight in Dublin and strolled to a win over Juancho Gonzalez.

The eight-round contest was initially due to be a defence of Donovan’s BUI Celtic featherweight title, but this status was revoked after Asturian Gonzalez came in over the 126lbs weight limit yesterday.

Donovan had former WBO middleweight champion Andy Lee in his corner for the first time and looked impressive as he dominated the game Spaniard.

‘Lilywhite Lightning’ certainly seemed more ‘pro’-styled in the all-southpaw clash, showing more inside fighting than previously alongside his trademark combinations and fast feet.

Donovan began assuredly, banking early rounds and gradually picking up the pace against an aggressive foe.

Bodywork was taking a lot out of Gonzalez and, while he continued to march forward, Donovan was meeting him with sharp shots at every turn.

Well-conditioned, the 32 year old Kildare man was still exceedingly fresh in the eighth round, and looks primed for a step-up in 2018.

Going to the cards, Donovan picked up a one-sided 80-72 victory.

The win sees Donovan improve to 6(3)-0, and is now just two fights away from being eligible for consideration for the European Boxing Union rankings.

The game Gonzalez falls to 11(4)-7(3) following a spirited if unsuccessful performance.

The fight concluded a brilliant year for boxing on the island of Ireland, with tonight’s card being the NINETEENTH of 2017 – more than three times as many that took place in 2016.

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)

Kildare boxing is proudly supported by Liffey Crane Hire.