Newly-crowned professional world kickboxing champion Gary Hamilton could put his career on hold to pursue his boxing dream, it emerged last night. Hamilton is eager to prove himself under the Marquis of Queensbury rules and the first of four is scheduled in April and is matched-up against Daffyd Carlin of Belfast (April 5). Hamilton has had five pro boxing fights, compared to Carlin’s 10 fight record. The East Belfast Carlin had a good bout last Saturday night at the odyssey when he was matched up with Robert Murray of Dublin over four rounds.
Hamilton won his debut, against Jyula Zabo of Hungary on the first ill-fated Wayne McCullough home-coming in October 2000. Hamilton and Carlin come Head-Head for the Northern Ireland lightweight professional Boxing title “I am confident I will do well as the training is very similar to kickboxing and I am gaining experience all the time,” Hamilton said. “The Carlin fight was one I am looking forward to, he is a good fighter with more experience then me but I believe that I am all round much better boxer,it will be a good fight while it lasts.” The Belfast man, still only 22, said he was looking forward to proving himself in the boxing ring but warned that it could affect his kickboxing commitments. Hamilton's boxing was put on hold during the build-up to the kickboxing world-title challenge but Mr McCausland believes he has great potential with his fists. "Gary just needs a few bouts to get back into his stride as he hasn't boxed in a while," he said. "It will be a great fight between the two Belfast boys East V South Belfast, and it will be the first time in over 30 something years that the title has been contested here. "I’m sure it will be a great night for local boxing here at the Ulster Hall too."

Tickets are available at the Ulster Hall or contact the promoter Mr Paul McCausland on 07802495060 or Billy Murray Promotions on 90651074 or Alan Wilton 07880926596. Priced at £20 unreserved except ringside.

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