Prizefighter hopeful Byrne: this is my chance to get into title contention

DEAN Byrne is viewing Prizefighter as a big chance rather than a last chance to get back into title contention.

The Dubliner has been touted as a future title winner even before Freddie Roach waxed lyrical about the former Wild Card punchers talents, but has endured a somewhat stop start career since leaving the States.

There were defeats after taking fights at very late notice, before a draw with the fighter who pushed Kell Brook all the way, Carson Jones. His last outing, a WBA Intercontinental dust up with Russian Roman Belaev was an all guts no glory display, as the 29 year old lost on points.

However, the welterweight has been given a chance to jump straight back up the ladder and finally grab some welterweight spotlight.

“It is Prizefighter and fights over three rounds so it isn’t last chance saloon. What it is a big chance to earn good money and get bigger fights by winning the tournament,” Byrne told Irish-boxing.com.

“A win would get me back into title contention that is for sure.”

And Byrne believes the three round three fight format plays to his abilities and makes winning a big possibility.

“I think Prizefighter is perfect for me because I can adapt my style to any fighter in the world. Over three rounds I can give the best of them trouble,” Byrne added when discussing the York Hall hosted tournament, which takes places this Saturday before stressing the latest installment of Prizefighter the Welterweights boasts eight talented fighters.

“I respect all the fighters in the competition. Anyone one of us can win it, thats what’s good about Prizefighter it is an open field and it is all about whoever performs on night.”

Byrne isn’t the only Irish interest in this weekends Prizefighter. Belfast Paddy Gallagher also has the Prizefighter trophy in his sights and Byrne hopes he avoids his country man till the decider.

“I am not looking to avoid anyone, but it would be nice if Paddy and I fought in the final for the Irish reason of course.

“I would like to thank Eddie Hearn for giving me this chance and all my support who are coming over irish friends and those who wished me well on Twitter.”