Keeler: Prizefighter brings a bigger prize than the winners cheque

THE €40,000 winners cheque certainly appeals, as does a big trophy for the mantle, but neither are the biggest prize Prizefighter offers, claims Luke Keeler.

The Dublin middleweight believes victory in the all action, widely consumed, Sky broadcast knockout Matchroom tournament can change his career.

Prizefighter has proved a career fast track for a number of fighters and if Keeler emulates former Irish winners Martin Rogan, Willie Casey, Eamonn O’Kane and gym mate Jono Carroll he believe it will help him progress from prospect to contender and kick start his career.

Keeler is confident a tournament he believes has come at the perfect time for him is suited to his style and isn’t going in to make up the numbers.

“I couldn’t be happier about getting a slot. It is a perfect start to the year and perfect timing in terms of my career,” Keeler told Irish-boxing.

“I always felt prizefighter would be perfect for my style and this tournament can kick start my career. It is brilliant in terms of the profile it provides and the prize money for the winner isn’t bad either.”

The undefeated Celtic Warrior Gym middleweight, who will have the coach of the last Prizefighter winner Jono Carroll in his corner, plans to win the tournament in exciting fashion- and if he does so is confident it could help keep big time boxing in Dublin.

“2015 is where I wanted and needed to gradually step up so again this is perfect timing. I’m hoping to win Prizefighter in exciting fashion and along with my gym mates, who are all doing well at the moment, and other Dublin fighters I hope to bring a show to the National Stadium and keep momentum going.”