Derry could end its long wait for professional boxing to return to the city in 2019.
Negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes to try and give WBO European super-bantamweight champion Tyrone McCullagh a headline-topper in his home city next year.
McCullagh’s management and promotors are hoping to get the unbeaten southpaw (12-0, 6KOs) the fight he craves.
The Foyle Arena remains the venue of choice, but there remain some issues.
The British Boxing Board’s regulations mean that Derry is unable to stage a show, as the city is too far away, time-wise, from the nearest neurological unit – at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
However, Derry Daily understands that talks are advancing to involving Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, which could hold the key.
“It would be a dream come true to fight in Derry. That would be something else,” McCullagh said.
“I’d love a fight here. It’s in the works. It’s not guaranteed, but they’re talking about it.
“Touch wood it could happen in 2019.”
Derry has not hosted pro boxing since Charlie Nash defeated Frank McCord in a lightweight bout at the Guildhall in 1982.
McCullagh won the first two straps of his pro career in 2018, defeating Joe Ham for the Celtic super-bantamweight title before overcoming Josh Kennedy for the WBO European super-bantamweight belt.
McCullagh said: “It’s a great achievement, but I want more.
“When I was an amateur, I said I wanted to win a national title and that would do me.
“I never dreamed of a European title, but now I have it and I believe I can achieve more.”
McCullagh is ranked at 13 in the world and wants to move into big contention over the next 12 months.
He said: “By the end of 2019 I want to be knocking on the door of a world title fight.
“Another couple of big wins would have me there or thereabouts.
“I believe I have the skills to compete at that level. I just need to fine tune them.”
Ultimately, the 28-year-old Glen Road man is likely to end up in the featherweight ranks as making the 122lb limit is proving a struggle.
McCullagh is also ready to up the rounds.
He added: “When I started, I was absolutely beat after four rounds. That’s a big adjustment, slowing yourself down and pacing yourself in a fight.
“I had my first ten-round fight this year. I went from four to ten rounds and it was a massive jump. I’m ready now to go to 12 rounds.”
