New Year’s Resolutions: Chris Blaney aiming to continue perfect pro start

Boxing often doesn’t go to plan, with inactivity, injuries, and the like.

For fighters turning pro there is also the issue of adjusting to the new code, and many can struggle initially.

However, for Navan’s Chris Blaney [4(2)-0] everything is looking rosy after a busy first year as a professional.

Following relocation and the Hatton Gym in Manchester last year, Blaney fought four times between June and November, marking himself out as Ireland’s most active prospect.

Reflecting on a solid first year, Blaney told Irish-Boxing.com that “I’m delighted with how 2016 worked out, I loved every minute in all four fights I was in so far.”

“The training is as tough as I thought it would be, but I’m enjoying it and can’t wait to fight again in February.”

‘The Ginger Ninja’ is hoping for more of the same in 2017 as he looks to rise up through the ranks, and described how “as you all know I’d fight every week if I could, The aim realistically would to have six or seven fights this year, I don’t really have a plan yet, I’ll let Ricky and the team sort that out as they want what’s best for me.”

“I think I’m improving every fight so, come February, I’m sure I’ll be fitter and stronger – as it’ll be my first time weighing in under the 12 stone mark.”

While he may not yet have a definitive plan, Blaney admits that “I’d hope to fight in an eight-rounder by next year, and a title would be brilliant. As soon as I do an eight-rounder, and there’s a fight there for a belt, I’d jump at the chance.

“I can’t wait to keep up my winning ways in 2017.”

Photo Credit: Laszlo Geczo Photography

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Joe O’Neill and Gavan Casey look ahead to 2017 in episode 1 of The Irish Boxing Show