Kavanagh set for Madison Square Garden debut

2 May 2010 – By Jonny Stapleton

Irish fighter Jamie Kavanagh has signed a promotional contract with Golden Boy and will make his pro debut on the undercard of Amir Khan’s WBA World title fight with Paulie Malignaggi.

The former Crumlin amateur, who is trained and co managed by Freddie Roach, put pen to paper on a five-year-deal and will join superstars Manny Pacquiao, Shane Mosley, Bernard Hopkins and Juan Manuel Marquez on Golden Boys talent-laden books.

It is a mammoth move for the 19-year-old prospect , who aided by an eight-year stint in Spain speaks fluent Spanish.

Having the backing of arguably the biggest promotional company in boxing -which is run by 10 time World champion Oscar De La Hoya – will all but ensure that Kavanagh, Golden Boys only Irish fighter, becomes a global name.

The in demand World amateur youth silver medallist was also being perused by Bob Arums Top Rank but eventually chose the Golden Boy ticket because they were open to him fighting in Ireland.

Having Golden Boy as my promoter and Freddie Roach as my coach was always in my head, he said.

It is a dream come true to be working with both. I had options but there was a good vibe about Golden Boy. I liked the plan they had for my future. When we discussed my career they took on board what I had to say. They will allow me to fight at home when the time is right. That was important to me. I want to fight in America for most of my career, but there is no place like home.

I now have all the support I need and the prefect team behind me. Now the business is done its time to fight and get the job done, Kavanagh, who has been tipped by Roach to be a World champion, explained to the Mirror.

The Nuisance will begin work in the paid ranks on the undercard of Amir Khans much hyped WBA defence on May 15. And the fighter, who trains in the Wild Card gym with fellow Dubliner Dean Byrne is excited at making is professional bow on such a high profile night.

Im excited about making my debut. Not every fighter gets to make their debut in Madison Square Garden or on such a big card It is also great to fight in New York were there is a lot of Irish boxing support.

I dont know who my opponent is yet. I should find out sometime this week, but training camp is going well and I am getting all the sparring I need.