“AWKARD B*****d” is probably the most common phrase opponents have used to describe Tyrone McCullagh throughout his amateur career.

Such profanities would not be used in reference to the likable Illies Golden Gloves graduate out side of the ring, but inside it he is renowned for frustrating his opponents into submission.

‘White Chocolate’ knows as a pro he won’t be able to rely solely on that defensive style and while he won’t morph into the last fighter from Derry City to turn over, John Duddy he will adopt a more fan friendly style when he punches for pay for the first time this week.

McCullagh an opponent who has proved nightmare for most makes his pro bow on the Nightmare at Elsemere card in Liverpool and has been working to adapt his style over the last few months.

“The training hasn’t been too much different compared to an amateur fight. Although I have been working on trying to adapt my style a bit more to the pro side of things. I have been slowing my feet up and so fort, but that won’t happen all at once. Hopefully it’ll come in bits and pieces and I will get it all right.

“Training has been going really well, I only found out 3 weeks ago so It’s been a bit of a rush to get ready and get my sharpness up to scratch, but I’ve had a few good spars with Mick Conlan and I feel I am ready,” McCullagh told Irish-boxing.com.

“I would like to make an impression on Saturday night, but it’s important not to go in all guns blazing.  The fans can expect to see a good solid performance from me with a bit more action than usual.

The Derry man, who has been working with Gerry Storey Jr and Snr ahead of the clash, has to debut further away than most of the recent crop to turn over.

While most debut in Dublin or Belfast McCullagh is Liverpool bound, but is unperturbed about traveling and remains excited about his first paid bout, which is against Hungarian Tapas Laska.

“The excitement levels are very high. I can’t wait to get in and see what it’s like but at the same time there are some extra nerves. I guess that’s to be expected! I don’t mind travelling to make my debut. I’m bringing a decent crowd over with me and Ciaran McVarnock) is also on the bill so I’m sure there will be a good few Irish there.I’ve been waiting a long time for this so I would of went anywhere to fight.”