Keeler: Topping a Dublin bill made up for the disappointment of missing out on Sky Sports fight

LUKE Keeler claims topping a bill in his home town makes the blow of missing out on a Sky Sports broadcast fight like receiving one from 16 ounce rather than eight ounce gloves, softened.

The Dublin middleweight was due to fight what he believed would prove a breakout contest against Paul Moffett live on Sky Sports on August 30, but was left disappointed when the Matthew Macklin topped bill was postponed.

However, the disappointment has been lessened by the fact he was given the opportunity to continue his progression this coming Friday night.

Matchroom and the Sky Sports camera’s might not be in town, but Keeler is still keen to impress and is eager to show his loyal support the improvements he has made over the last 12 months.

“The Macklin show being cancelled was big disappointment but having Alio’s (Wilton) Dublin show shortly after softened the blow. Plus the fact I’m fighting on the rescheduled Macklin show in November meant I wasn’t too gutted. It’s a shame but it happens in boxing with injuries and so fort effecting shows.  I have seen it all before in gym with Ormonds fights falling through,” said Keeler.

Gym talk has Keeler down as one of the most improved prospects in Irish boxing over the last 12 months and the middleweight, who argues he is as much a prospect at the weight as Jason Quigley and Conrad Cummings, is eager to show fight fans just how much he has progressed on a show that includes Sean Turner, Ian Tims, Declan Geraghty, Phil Sutcliffe and Ciaran Bates.

“I am looking forward to showing improvements in this fight. I’ve been sparring Frank Buglioni and couldn’t be happier with the preparation. I’ve been doing six rounds at really high workrate and holding my own against world class guy with 15 fights and weight division above me, that has proved a huge confidence boost.

“He’s a big accurate puncher so I had no choice but to improve my defence! We are both enjoying the sparring and bringing each other on. Frank has been great addition to (the Celtic Warrior) gym. He’s basing himself here for all fights so be ideal prep for November aswell. With Spike back too and Cuban club mate Glory and amateur Tony Browne I have been spoiled with top class sparring.”

“I definitely feel like I am moving in right direction. I am improving all the time and excited about continuing developing and notching up the wins and knock outs.

With a host of Dublin prospects on the card Keeler is hopeful of a high turn out and believes the show could somewhat kick start a fight revolution in the capital.

“Id like to thank everyone who bought tickets as I wouldn’t be kept busy without their support. Hopefully it’s a sell out as we need these shows to be a success to keep young Dublin pros active and developing.”