16.01.07 – Fearsome Belfast puncher Neil Sinclair has been added to the “Valentine’s Weekend Massacre” event at Cork’s City Hall on Saturday, February 17th. The former undefeated British welterweight champion challenged for a World title back in 2000 and is determined to scale those heights again in 2007. After an excellent amateur career which included Commonwealth Gold and a Bronze medal at the World Junior championships “Sinky” turned pro in 1995..
In December of 2000 he took on WBO welterweight champion, Daniel Santos in Sheffield but his World title bid ended in brave defeat having floored the champion in the opening round.
Within a year Sinclair had bounced back to win the British title and he successfully defended it three times to win a prestigious Lonsdale belt outright.
Last time out Sinclair made his U.S. debut headlining an ESPN card that was televised live coast to coast in the U.S. Now back in Belfast Sinclair is hoping for a busy 2007 and has his sights set on a European title.
The 32-year-old’s trainer John Breen said, “I’d put Neil Sinclair in with anyone in Europe right now. He’s the hardest puncher I’ve ever trained but he has loads of boxing ability as well. I genuinely believe Neil is a world class fighter and hopefully he can finally prove it this year.”
Topping the bill in Cork are local brothers Billy and Pa Walsh. Billy will be looking to extend his unbeaten record on the night while younger brother Pa is looking forward to his pro debut.
In preparation for the bout Pa has entered the Irish Senior Amateur Championships for one last time. They get underway at the National Stadium in Dublin this weekend with Pa entered in the welterweight division. Previously in the amateurs Pa has exchanged leather with the likes of Ricky Hatton and John Duddy.
Tickets for the February 17th show priced at €60, €70 and €80 are available from the Castle Tavern in Riverstown or by phoning 087 242 4898.
For further information contact Gary Hyde on: 087 242 4898
The “Valentine’s Weekend Massacre” at Cork’s City Hall is proudly supported by Wholesale Floors and the Clarion Hotel.