Hyland can return to world level, but maybe at super feather says coach

Patrick Hyland should move up in weight in a bid to move back into World title contention suggests coach Pascal Collins.

‘The Punisher’ challenged for the WBC featherweight World title last Saturday night, but was stopped by Gary Russell Jr.

Collin’s isn’t suggesting weight was a problem or a catalyst behind the reverse in America, indeed he has suggested the Dubliner just came against an elite and special talent and stress ‘The Punisher’ was punished for a mistake in round two.

The Celtic Warrior Gym boss, however, is confident ‘Pajo’ still has a big fight future, but told Irish-boxing.com he believes that future should be at a bigger weight.

“Let Pajo enjoy his little break now, but I would like to see him straight back down the gym This was our first fight together and the more work we do together the better. I really see potential still in him. Personally I think he should look at moving to super featherweight. Realisticly Pajo hasn’t made featherweight, because he hasn’t had to, for four years and as you get older it does get that bit harder,” Collins told Irish-boxing.com.

The last time Hyland had to tip the scales at the official nine stone limit before last Friday morning was four years ago when he challenged Javier Fortuna for the WBA Interim title, a fight he lost on points.

In between that bout and his second big chance Hyland suffered a stop start period and when he fought journey men usually filled the opposite corner.

Collins believes a few more testing challenges would suit the Dubliner and would aid him if he was to return to World title level.

“I think he should sit with his team and look at a move to junior lightweight. Fight a few top 10 fighters and maybe he can get another shot, just not against a lefty next time, please!!” he added before suggesting it’s not all doom and gloom.

“For Irish fighters we can always look at what Bernard Dunne did, he got blown out in around by Kiko and came back to win a World title. Even the best lose it can happen and Pajo can come back.

“I have to say ten out of ten in bravery for Pajo even taking the Russell Jr fight, that is the type of fighter he is. I know going forward too he would take any fight you have to respect him for that.”