Sutcliffe to fight ‘formidable’ foe on May 1-victory will place him Euro top 10

PHILIP Sutcliffe will become a top 10 European light welterweight if he wins against ‘formidable’ opposition on May 1.

Former French champion and EU title challenger Yoann Portailler travels to Dublin to fight the undefeated prospect on the top of a Red Cow hosted show.

It’s not quite D-Day on May Day for the Dub, but victory over Portailler will provide the big punching prospect with passage into the European top 10 and thus make him eligible to challenge for the European title before he has even had 10 fights.

Manager Pat Magee admits it is a step up in class for the exciting talent, but expects Sutcliffe to pass the difficult French test and take step one on a 2015 title run.

“Following the sudden and unexpected withdrawal of Alexander Lepelley I am pleased to announce that we have been able to secure a substitute of equal standing to box Philip Sutcliffe over 8 round is on the Red Cow show on 1st May in the form of Yoann Portaille,” Magee said today.

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“Portailler is a former French Champion who has engaged in 4 French and EU title fights over 10 and 12 round distances and has a record of 17-5.He is rated no 11 in the EU and has a 15 standing with the EBU.He is without doubt a formidable opponent at this stage of Philip’s development and is a considerable step up in class.A win here will secure him a place in the top 10 in Europe and leave him eligible for European title fights.

“Philip’s career to date has been somewhat of a slow burner because of injuries but this fight will give him all the incentive he needs and will create the momentum for the start of a title run before 2015 is out. This is the opportunity for his supporters to get behind him and we can expect a big turnout on the night at the Red Cow.”