Rivals Gary Cully and Joe Fitzpatrick to fight for the Irish lightweight title?
Contracts have yet to be signed, but the mouthwatering clash between Gary Cully [9(4)-0] and Joe Fitzpatrick [10(7)-0] looks to have taken a step closer to being made – and if terms are agreed then the pair will trade leather for the Irish title.
After some verbal sparring in October, Cully revealed over the weekend that the pair were in talks with regard to one of the most eagerly anticipated domestic dust ups.
However, when news broke that the next installments of the #MTKFightNight and the Celtic Clash series were going up against each other on February 1, fans became skeptical.
Cully was already confirmed for the Ulster Hall, while ‘The Dragon’ has been Boxing Ireland’s go to bill topper for their most recent Devenish shows.
Yet there is no need to worry Irish-boxing.com understands the fight is still in the works – and the fact the BUI have sanctioned an Irish title fight between the pair suggests the have been in touch with both sets of promoters with regard to the fight going ahead.
The Irish governing body confirmed online today that they have given the green light for a green belt fight between the Kildare and Belfast fighters.
The BUI Ratings Committee met at the weekend and have sanctioned a bout between BUI Celtic Lightweight Champion @fitzpatrickjoe and @BoxerCully for the Irish Lightweight Title. Now up to the management of both fighters to make a deal in 14 days or will go to purse bids
— BoxingUnionOfIreland (@boxingunionIRL) December 2, 2019
The fan friendly nature of the fight makes it a great bout to kick off what could be a sensational 2020 for Irish boxing.
The fact two young Irish prospects have agreed to meet and their teams have facilitated the fight is another major plus, as is bringing another Irish title into play.
The domestic dust up could become the bread and butter of the sport outside of the mega nights – and if this bout inspires more talented operators to go all Irish it could be remembered for more than a good scrap.
Coalisland super feather Feargal McCrory was the last man to hold the belt, picking up the strap last February when he made a temporary step-up in weight to stop Karl Kelly at the Ulster Hall.
