Monaghan wants all-Irish, all-American, all-action clash with Smith
Seanie Monaghan [26(16)-0] has long been calling for a fight with one of the top names in the light heavyweight division.
The Long Islander is open to clashes with the likes of Stevenson, Kovalev, Braehmer etc., but has explained how boxing politics have hindered his chances of securing these fights.
However, away from the title-holders, there is one other fighter that the slugger of Navan heritage would like to take on – another Irish-American by the name of Joe Smith Jr.
Smith Jr also hails from Long Island, New York, and goes by the ring moniker of ‘The Irish Bomber.’ At 26, he is 8 years Monaghan’s junior, but is similar in that he never shies away from a fight.
The pair have previous, meeting in the final of the 2008 New York Golden Gloves. That time Smith Jr emerged victorious, and now he wants another clash in the pro ranks.
After a knockout win against Will Rosinsky in Brooklyn last November, Smith Jr called out Monaghan, and now ‘Irish Seanie’ has stated his willingness to take up the challenge meet his fellow Wild Goose in the ring.
Monaghan told brooklynfights.com that “outside of these guys [World Champions], the person I want the most, the person I want first, is Joe Smith,”
“I heard him say after his win at the Barclay’s Center that he wants me next. I really want him.”
The 34 year old, ranked in the top ten by all four major governing bodies, acknowledged the history between himself and Smith, and feels that a St Patrick’s Day match-up makes perfect sense.
“He beat me in the amateurs; I want and I need to return that favour. We sold out the Madison Square Garden Theater and I’d love to fight him again.”
“I want to fight him at the same venue, on St. Patrick’s Day. I believe we can sell it out again and if not then we can fight at the Barclay’s Center or wherever.”
“I’d like to fight Joe Smith on St. Patrick’s Day. Tell me where, and I’m there.”
