Two local boxers are turning professional
TWO Sligo boxers are turning professional and are preparing for their first professional bouts later this year.
Aaron Gethins (18) from Sligo town and 22-year-old James Lynch, a Ballygawley native, are turning professional.
Aaron has already been given a date for his pro debut when he will take to the ring in the Royal Theatre, Castlebar on December 8th next. His opponent is still not known and should be revealed a fortnight before the fight. James is still waiting to find out when he will be fighting. Both are with Ballinacarrow and coached by Stephen Reynolds and Glen Gethins, Aaron’s dad. Glen said they are really looking forward to a great night in Castlebar on December 8th with large crowds of supporters from Sligo expected to travel. Aaron has signed a contract with his manager Tony Davis for three years and he has been with Ballinacarrow since he was nine years old. We reckon that it could be a Bulgarian that he might be fighting, we will know two weeks beforehand. Tickets are for sale and people can get them through Aaron or myself. We are expecting a crowd of around 200 or so from Sligo, buses will be running and there are 12 fights in total on the night with the main one being Ray Moylan from Castlebar going for the WBS title.” It has been awhile since Sligo boxers turned pro, Glen added. “Stephen Reynolds was the last one he fought 3 pro fights and got fighter of the year. The last boxer before that was Vinny Feeney from Maugheraboy who was known as the Sligo kid. Aaron, who has won numerous national titles at amateur, was defeated on a split decision when fighting for Ireland at the Europeans and won a Silver medal at the Hargadon Cup.
Glen said that with both Aaron and James turning pro, it is good for the local boxing scene in Sligo. “It is great for boxing overall, you saw Dearbhla Rooney win Bronze at the World Youth Olympics and Dean Clancy was unlucky not to win a medal, Dean’s a great lad and it’s brilliant for the sport.
Glen thanked the sponsors who are getting behind them too. “We want to thank all the sponsors including Jako Sport with all the gear, Austies in Rosses Point and the local pubs and restaurants, Sliding Doors and Pet Stop too. Thanks to all our sponsors, it is much appreciated,” Glen added. Tickets to the fight are €40 or €60 ringside with €15 for the bus.