Hogan: It was great to win Australian award but I want World recognition next year

DENNIS Hogan was a grateful recipient of the Australian Champion of The Year award over the weekend, but is targeting World not just domestic recognition in 2015.

The Australian based Kildare puncher upgraded from King of Queensland to xx rule of Australia when he claimed the title back in 2013, but defended against the highest ranked contenders in 2014. He also used the strap as a stepping stone to continental success, which in turn secured him a top 15 World ranking with both the WBA and the IBF.

Hogan ended the year with a victorious American debut and after taking Australia by storm ‘The Hurricane’ is ready to reek havoc on the World stage.

“It’s a great honour to receive the Champion of the Year award,” Hogan told Irish-boxing.com.

“As the champion we were trying to get the best level opposition as possible for progression and for the fans. So we fought everyone at the top. I moved away from the Australian title for continental honours and a world ranking so I feel I’ve done my job well and fulfilled my role as Champion and what better way to be rewarded than this prestigious award,” the undefeated fighter added.

Hogan now feels he is ready for big names and he believes a ‘massive’ 2015 can lead to massive fights.

“Next year I feel will be massive. We will be aiming for the highest ranking international fighter we can get for early next year. The plan is to  keep the pressure on and to push for the a title fight or at least an eliminator. I’m still improving everyday but I feel now I’m completely ready to take on the worlds best and confidence I can get a positive result.”