Michael Conlon to Make History Headlining Belfast and Dublin

Irish boxer Michael Conlon is set to make history as the first fighter to headline both the Belfast SSE Arena and Dublin 3Arena when he faces Jake Bateman on September 5. This fight comes after a challenging period for Conlon, who contemplated retirement following three defeats in five bouts.

Conlon, who won the 2015 World Amateur Championship, faced significant setbacks with losses to Luis Alberto Lopez in December 2022 and Jordan Gill in May 2023. These defeats followed a previous loss to Leigh Wood in March 2022, marking a stark contrast to his earlier professional success, which included a 16-fight unbeaten streak since turning professional in 2017.

Inspired to Continue by Family

While Conlon considered stepping away from the sport, his decision shifted after a heartfelt conversation with his daughter, Luisne. “I was thinking, ‘that’s enough, that’s me done’,” he recalled. “But my daughter heard me and said, ‘What? No, daddy! You need to be a world champion, you’re not retiring.'” This moment reignited Conlon’s motivation to return to the ring.

He made a successful comeback in March 2023 by defeating Asad Asif Khan at the Brighton Centre. Conlon described the experience of returning after a 16-month hiatus as refreshing. “It was the first time in my life I hadn’t been nervous before a fight,” he noted. “I just wanted to shake off the rust and get back to what I love doing.” His victory against Khan reinstated his confidence and paved the way for the upcoming match against Bateman.

Preparing for Bateman and Fighting in Dublin

Conlon’s next opponent, Jake Bateman, has a professional record of 20-1-1, with the draw coming against IBF and WBO European super-featherweight title holder Danny Quartermaine. Conlon expressed respect for Bateman, stating, “I know Jack quite well; he is actually a really nice guy. We have sparred together a few times.” He believes Bateman’s style will suit him, indicating confidence in his technical abilities.

Taking the fight to Dublin is a significant milestone for Conlon, who has represented Ireland in two Olympic Games but has never fought professionally in the city. He explained that the cost of promotions has historically made it challenging to host events in Dublin, but the opportunity to fight there now is something he cherishes. “Getting to come back here as a professional is very special,” he added.

Conlon has built strong connections in Dublin, particularly with renowned fighters Kellie Harrington and Katie Taylor. He expressed his excitement, noting, “I’m probably a bigger name in Dublin than I am in Belfast,” thanks to accolades such as winning the RTÉ Sports Personality of the Year. “I feel more at home when I’m down here than even when I’m in Belfast,” he remarked.

As he prepares for this historic fight, Conlon is eager to embrace the atmosphere and the significance of headlining in both major arenas. “It’s a little bit of history I’m making, and I love making history,” he concluded, looking forward to an exciting night in Dublin.