Although he admits that winning the EU title would be the cherry on top of a surprise professional entry, Eric Donovan [15(8)-2(2)] he argues that there is room for more decorations besides his race cake.
Kildare talent fights Khalil El Hadri [13(7)-1(0)] for the prestigious and vacant EU super featherweight title at the Europa Hotel on Saturday night.
Clasping a Continental strap around his waist through victory live on TG4 would justify the 37-year-old’s decision to turn pro at 31, an age when most boxers begin to map out a plan of success. exit.
In fact, it would be the kind of memorable victory that would allow Donovan to reflect on his career as a success. Although he points out that it would not be a victory he would look to lean on.
“A victory would mean everything. It would justify my return to the ring after three years from semi-retirement. I turned pro right when I turned 31, most people retire from their careers at that age, they don’t get into it,” Donovan told Kildare Now.
“It would be remarkable to reach that goal, for me it would be the icing on the cake. Although I have the Irish title and the Celtic title, I feel like this would be my highlight. It would help me be happy with my career.”
It would be a crowning moment and allow 2 ‘Lilywhite Lightning’ to label their time in professional boxing a success, but it is a win that paves the way to bigger crowns.
The EU title usually comes with the mandatory status of the EBU title, so a win over El Hadri, a fighter once seen as a huge prospect in France, could see Donovan challenge the famous blue strap and a title that only 15 other Irish fighters have. he has won.
The Pascal Collins-trained man from Kildare is well aware of that and, as a result, isn’t planning a ‘come out strong’ victory on Saturday.
“I don’t want to see this fight as my last fight or a last hurrah. Saying that I am under no illusions that I am in the final chapters of my career. But it also opens up the possibility of other things, like a big homecoming in Kildare. These chances are there, a bigger chance then and maybe a bigger belt,” he explains.
“I’m willing to talk about it, but first things first, all eyes on September 24. That’s where my focus is and any other potential discussion is just speculation. Next is the mission.”
