By Terence Dooley
Paul McCloskey is a massive underdog going into next Saturday's WBA light-welterweight challenge against Amir Khan. The EBU title holder holds a 22-0 (12) record yet is taking a huge step up in class as he bids to rip away the Oldham boxer's title and bring it back to Derry.
McCloskey is trained by Irish boxing legend John Breen, who guided the latter part of Wayne Alexander’s career. Wayne believes that his former stablemate is more than capable of springing an upset at Manchester's MEN Arena, especially if he listens to his experienced corner team.
“Don't forget John Breen's influence,” warned the former British and European boss when analysing the upcoming contest. “I wanted to get away from the distractions of London and went over to John in Ireland later in my career. The training wasn't better or worse than with [former trainer] Jimmy [Tibbs], just different. John loves the game, is dedicated and has [former Commonwealth light-welterweight and WBU welterweight titlist] Eamon Magee and former pro Jim Rock around him. John has brought through world champions such as Dave McAuley so he knows the script.
Indeed, Alexander's faith in the 31-year-old is bolstered by his past sparring sessions with 'Dudey' – a former British 140lb title holder. “I said Paul would become a champion before he turned pro. I sparred him when he was an amateur and he was a talent back then,” says Alexander.
“Paul's got a task, everyone knows that, but he can do it. Paul loves to fight and he is a handful. It is the first time Khan has faced someone with this style. Paul can win because he can box and fight. He's also a southpaw, can switch it up and he showed me plenty when we sparred.”
The former British, European and WBU light-middleweight champion had his own world tilt against Namibia's Harry Simon in 2001, vying unsuccessfully for the WBO title on short notice after Robert Allen's withdrawal. Wayne believes that Paul's talent, form and long training camp will be big pluses come fight night.
He said, “I don't know why Khan has taken it because it is a tough one for him with little reward. I always called Paul a little white Naz. He is hard to read. I sparred with him early in his pro career and he'd improved so much after turning over and will be even better now. Paul is a really good fighter, he's got the makings of a world champ even if he doesn't win this one. They've given him the notice to get ready – he has a real chance here.”
Khan's MEN homecoming will be televised live on Sky Sports Box Office.
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