Rebel teen Dan-Dan Keenan has World title dream

On Saturday night at the famous York Hall in London, local lad Dan-Dan Keenan [2(0)-0] is in action in his third professional contest.

While he was born in the British capital, there is plenty of Rebel blood coursing through the 19 year old’s veins.

Keenan’s family hail from the Shandon Street area of Cork city centre and the welterweight spoke this week to Irish-Boxing.com

Turning pro at the tender age of 18, Keenan explained that “I was down the pro gym just to get some sparring in really when I was about 17 and I was doing well against pros so I thought ‘why not?'”

“It was something I always wanted to do and I’m really enjoying working with my trainer Barry O’Connell who also comes from Cork city ”

Keenan’s entry into the pro ranks is no aimless journey either. The Londoner has had big promotional backing since the outset through Steve Goodwin.

“Steve’s proper,” he continued, “he helps me out a lot.”

“Things are going really well. He got me on the David Haye [v Arnold Gjergjaj] undercard at the O2 Arena in just my second contest so I’m very thankful for what his doing for me.”

“My support is also second to none I sell between 450-500 tickets each fight. I’m very grateful for the massive following so early in my career.”

Regarding his style, Keenan describes himself as “an aggressive counter attacker.”

“I have very fast hands and good feet.”

“I watch a lot of Joe Calzaghe and try to implement a lot of what he does. If there’s one boxer that I’d say I think I am similar to it would be him.”

Like most youngsters starting out, Keenan admits that “my ultimate aim is of course to be World champion I wouldn’t even bother boxing if I didn’t genuinely think I could achieve that.”

In the short term, the teenager notes how “I’m just taking my time learning and improving each day.”

“I’m from London so I hope to fight for the Southern Area title before my 21st birthday, and then maybe the Irish title, who knows?”

On Saturday in Bethnal Green the West Londoner takes on durable Bulgarian Teodor Boyadjiev [1(0)-9(1)-1], and admits that he is not overly familiar with his upcoming foe. This is not an issue for Keenan who notes how “I haven’t seen him at all to be honest but my stable mate Jumanne Camero beat him last time out and that’s about it really.”

“I’m not too worried about my opponent anyway I know I’ve trained hard and I’m ready to put in a performance for my people on Saturday night.”