Michael Conlan is no stranger to rebuilding his career, and his fourth attempt to reach the top begins at the Brighton Centre tomorrow evening. Following his seventh-round stoppage loss to Jordan Gill in December 2023, his third career defeat by knockout, many speculated that Conlan might retire.
However, a period of soul-searching has led him to join Sauerlands and take a supporting slot on Channel 5 for Tyrone McKenna’s fight against Harlem Eubank. While previous defeats to world-class fighters like Leigh Wood and Luis Alberto Lopez were somewhat expected, the Gill loss was surprising. Conlan will need to display his signature sharpness against India’s Asad Asif Khan.
Conlan stated, “I feel renewed, and my goals have been refreshed as I now understand what I must do to achieve them. I’ve always been dedicated, but this feels different from recent years.”
“I feel like I have a purpose. I’m not fighting for money, but simply to become a champion, and that’s it.”
This latest comeback is in association with Grant Smith, father of world title contender Dalton Smith. Conlan previously worked under Adam Booth, though that relationship ended as some questioned the tactics surrounding Conlan’s loss to Lopez. Smith’s role will be crucial if the world title dream is to be realized.
Conlan added, “I really like Grant as a coach and as a person. He’s not trying to change me as a boxer, but he is pointing out my mistakes, which is what I’ve needed, and tweaking minor details.”
“I’m 33 years old, not a young prospect anymore, and not an Olympic medalist or anything like that. It’s simply a matter of having talent, ability, dedication, and hard work, so combine that with some luck, and you’ll get there.”
