Luke Keeler warns Conrad Cummings he's improved and hints at scoring stoppage
Luke Keeler (15-2-1) has warned WBO European middleweight champion Conrad Cummings (16-2-1) he’s a far more powerful prospect ahead of Friday’s huge rematch.
Dublin’s ‘Cool Hand’ is undefeated in three years and heads for the #MTKFightNight at Ulster Hall to renew hostilities with Cummings, who he beat to the vacant belt just over a year ago at The SSE Arena.
With a full and uninterrupted camp behind and his lifestyle much improved in general, Keeler is bristling with confidence ahead of this weekend’s headline act.
Keeler said: “In our first fight, I was fighting back from a shoulder injury and finding my feet with a new coach. I was happy to get a points win then but this time around I’m injury-free and punching without pain for the first I can remember.
“My technique is much better and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the stoppage came. This is the perfect fight to build momentum and then push on to world level.
“This is my first solid year as a full-time professional and it’s sharpened my mind and body. I’m looking forward to show that to everyone on Friday.
“I’m a different fighter to a year ago. My trainer can confirm that. At the beginning, we’d spend full sessions just improving footwork and balance. I’ve always had natural fighting ability and it carried me through but a few adjustments have changed me as a fighter.
“I’m doing full-time training and I can dedicate all my time to it. I’m having proper meals and I’m resting properly. Before, I was juggling a full-time job and eating chicken fillet rolls on my break!”
Previously, Keeler admitted to being frustrated at Cummings for dismissing his victory over him, so there's a bit of needle between the pair which sets up an exciting rematch.
In addition to Cummings vs. Keeler 2, a who’s who of Irish boxing’s emerging stars bid to pinch the limelight on the undercard with the likes of Tyrone McKenna, Tyrone McCullagh, Sean McComb and many more on board.
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