Paddy Barnes eyeing unbeaten opponent for title defence on big Belfast bill

It was the three amigos in Belfast this morning, the little big men.

At a press conference in the Ulster Hall, Jamie Conlan had his world title challenge confirmed while Carl Frampton’s homecoming and Queensberry debut was also formally announced

Then there is Paddy Barnes [3(0)-0] who will defend his WBO European title on the bumper card which takes place at the SSE Odyssey Arena on Saturday November 18th.

Barnes was the headline attraction in June when he defeated former world title challenger Silvio Olteanu to win the belt.

Jumping from six rounds to ten rounds, the 30 year old claimed a majority decision win in what was a real tough learning experience.

With this in the bag, Barnes is keen to put on a more impressive and eye-catching performance in just over seven weeks time.

‘The Leprechaun’ explained how “in my last fight, I didn’t perform the way I can because I was more focused on doing the rounds.”

“Now I know what it’s about and I’m looking forward to showing my real skill.”

The highly-ambitious Barnes does not want to drop down from the level set by Olteanu and noted how “I want someone the same level as that – or better.”

“We’re looking at a fella, he’s unbeaten, so hopefully we’ll get him.”

First however Barnes will look to move to 4-0 next Friday [October 6th] on the MTK Scotland card at the Meadowbank in Edinburgh.

The Belfast boxer described how “it’s a keep-busy – well I hope it’s a keep-busy fight! Make a few quid, keep fit, and keep busy.”

“I asked for eight but it may be a six. I knew I was fighting on November 18th for a while so I haven’t been pushing myself too hard in training because I don’t want to peak too early”

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)