First Replacement for Ireland’s Last Man Standing named

The first of three replacement fighters for the Ireland’s Last Man Standing competition has been confirmed.

In the wake of the initial announcement at the start of the month, three of the eight boxers from the line-up for the middleweight tournament decided against competing.

These were Padraig McCrory, Thomas Finegan, and Henry Coyle – leaving just Chris Blaney, Alfredo Meli, Roy Sheahan, Bernard Roe, and Sean McGlinchey as definite entrants for the March 3rd fight night at the National Stadium

The single-elimination Prizefighter-style competition boasts a minimum of €25,000 for the winner and will be shown live on TG4

Numerous fighters expressed an interest in being one of the three replacements required, and tonight one of these boxers was confirmed.

After calling strongly for a spot, it has been announced that Belfast’s Ger Healy [6(0)-4(1)-1] will feature in the single-elimination tournament.

The Ray Ginley-trained West Belfast fighter essentially replaces IBA team-mate McCrory in the line-up for the big-money competition.

Following two years out, Healy made his return to the ring last year, exerting revenge over talented journeyman Willie Warburton.

‘Boom Boom’ then signed to face McGlinchey over eight rounds for the Celtic Nations middleweight title, but the fight scheduled for October would fall through.

Now 34, Healy is looking for an Indian Summer in the ring and the charismatic stylist is a hugely confident character.

Further replacements will be announced in the coming days.