Stephen Webb hits out at ‘disrespectful’ Joe Fitzpatrick

Stephen Webb has accused near neighbour and ‘Celtic Clash 8’ rival Joe Fitzpatrick of nigh on unforgivable disrespect ahead of their eagerly awaited Belfast lightweight derby.

The pair had shared words pre a February fight that was cancelled, but Webb has been keen to keep things civil ahead of the rescheduled Celtic Clash 8 bill topper.

A confident Fitzpatrick hasn’t quite read that script and has promised to inflict a beating so bad the St James’ end of the West Belfast derby will have no option but to become a journeyman.

Fellow southpaw Webb has taken exception to his rivals approach and those comment in particular and accused his soon to be headline dance partner of unnecessary disrespect.

“I just think him saying he wants the make me a journeyman after he beats me is disrespectful,” a disgruntled Webb told Irish-Boxing.com.

“We are both from Belfast and I always want to see people from here do well,” he adds before explaining he hopes Fitzpatrick is able to rebuild after he is beaten at the Devenish later this month.

“When I beat him the last thing I want is him going hanging the gloves up. I’d want him to go away rebuild and come back stronger and be a success in the sport.”

Although he is coming back off a long lay off Fitzpatrick is seen as the favourite going into the clash. ‘The Dragon’ brings more pro experience to the ring and has the far better amateur pedigree. Indeed, most agree that he is one of the best prospects in the Boxing Ireland stable.

However, Webb, who has just one pro outing to his name, is in confident mood ahead of the fight. The novice pro believes he has prepared right and has the ability to cause an upset.

“I’ve put in a lot of work for this fight. Sparring has gone great and everything is falling into place. I’ve worked on a lot of things for this fight. I’ll be ready to box at distance, or on the inside if needs be. I really think everybody in the Devenish on May 25th will love this fight.”

In fact, so confident is Webb of putting in a performance that he predicts he will become a name on the ever growing Irish fight scene.

“After this night I think every single person will stand up and take notice of me. It’s a great chance for me to prove so many people wrong. I’m loving being the underdog here.”