Nightmare night no problem for Connor Coyle ahead of big 2018

Connor Coyle‘s big breakthrough bout didn’t go exactly as he had planned, however the Derry middleweight still has a massive 2018 lined up.

Last week Coyle moved to 7-0 at the St Petersburg Coliseum in Florida – however his step-up eight rounder versus the unbeaten Calvin Metcalfe was demoted from the live television broadcast and the Foylesider turned in a performance he was not happy with.

Coyle was initially due to be televised nationwide in America on Fox Sports 1 as part of what was Premier Boxing Champions card – with former world titlist Devon Alexander headlining.

However, ‘The Kid’ was switched to the dreaded swing bout at the last minute, and ended up fighting after the main event.

Describing what was a bit of a nightmare night, Coyle explained to Irish-Boxing.com that “I got a call to say FX1 wanted me to be first TV fight, but when we arrived at the venue I ended up being a swing bout!”

“I was warming up for three hours with my gloves taped up! Horrible feeling all the waiting around, warming up and cooling down, not knowing when you’ll be up next!”

“I had an off night. And I had an off night with the worst opponent! He was awful. Awkward and very frustrating.”

Coyle does still see the positives having outpointed a former amateur of note, and reflected on how “I got the job done in the end up, I won unanimously. I’m still undefeated, and it was definitely a learning fight for me.”

“The main thing is, I got the job done, now I can go home and see my daughter who I miss sorely. Haven’t seen her in nine weeks! Just in time for Christmas, so I’m very happy about that.”

The fight last week is not being viewed with too much despair or as being a missed opportunity, as big things are in the pipeline for 27 year old Coyle.

Three fights on ESPN and promised title bouts are all on the agenda for the 2018, with Coyle outlining how “we have a few ESPN dates lined up for next year with FireFist Promotions, they’re taking great care of us here, and I’m very thankful for the opportunities they have given me so far.”

“I plan on having another eight-round fight next, then moving onto a title fight after that. I’d like to have two titles next year here in the States!”