Top Pros Praise Teen Talent Bobbi ‘Too Good’ Flood

Emerging talent Bobbi Flood moves toward World Youth Championship action with praise from some of Ireland’s top pros ringing in his ears.

The European Youth middleweight champion had spent time in Ballyfermot sparring the pros in Pete Taylor’s gym ahead of his recent Irish Youth title victory.

Rumour suggested the Cabra fighter performed admirably, with inside information claiming the 17-year-old produced well above what was initially expected for someone so young.

The humble fighter claimed it was a tough learning experience but one he really enjoyed and reveled in. He also points out the likes of Tyrone McKenna, Sean McComb and Paul Ryan shared words so kind it booseted his confidence.

“That’s where I belong,” he said when asked about the spars by Irish-boxing.com.

“I felt great in there, they are very tough lads it’s a different ball game in with them. They are stronger, they’ll walk you down and take your punches all day long. It’s great being up there and big thanks to Pete Taylor for letting me come up and spar with his boxers. It’s great experience. I can take a lot from it. They have a lot more experience than me and chatting to them after they said I’m one of the best amateurs they’ve had up there. I’m chuffed.”

Flood used the experience gained to help retain his Irish Youth title to cement his status as Ireland’s leading middleweight in his age group.

The Dubliner wasn’t happy with his final performance, which his team argued was hampered by a delay due to light failure. He still managed to win and now looks forward to trying to secure World Youth Championship selection.

“I was cold getting into the ring but these things happen. I could have done a lot better, it was a very slow first round but as the fight went on I got better, he was very good he was very strong.

“I’m happy of course, but I know I could have done a lot better. I’ve boxed a lot better before but that’s boxing and these things happen.

“My focus now isn’t the fight I just had it’s about getting into that training camp with the Irish team and trying to book my place in that World Championships. I know what my ability is. That wasn’t it there today but trust me if I get to those World Championships you’ll see the best Bobbi Flood you’ve ever seen. “