Wayne McCullough's Come Back: Eyes Set on Dunne
Posted: 28 May 2007, 22:35
Wayne McCullough's comeback has raised quite a few eyebrows. His first opponent has yet to be named, though he will be fighting in his native Ireland, two years after his last fight [knockout loss to Oscar Larios in 10th].
McCullough's comeback is based on winning a title one more time, whether he is capable of winning a world title is a matter of debate (though the smart money says no...well, hell no) but what of a European belt? Ironically, McCullough's choice opponent, whom his eyes are set on is none other than undefeated Bernard Dunne, the European champion.
What are his chances? Well...Dunne is 23-0 with 16 KO's. His opposition thus far has been against some very decent fighters, nothing to scream over, but none the less, solid opponents (least on the Euro level). Dunne is also 27 years of age, so youth will also be in his favor. A younger man facing a 'legend' of sorts, will show he has something to prove and work extra hard to clear all doubts.
The question has yet to be answered, yes I know, but this can't very well be determined until we see McCullough's first fight in over 2 years...which still no opponent has yet to be named. BUT...if we was to be asked, just by looking on paper and knowing what we know of the two men, who would win?
I'd lean towards Dunne, but I do believe that McCullough just might be his toughest fight to date. Why? More experience, big name, big reputation can play big psychological advantage...plus McCullough, despite his problems in recent years, has solid skills, is quick, has a good work rate, and his last two fights were for the WBC Super Bantamweight title. The latter may have been a KO loss, but the first fight went the distance and on scores of 116-112, 118-110, 118-110. Pretty decent for a man whose 37 [35 at that time] and who had brain damage (blood clot?).
McCullough is now cleared to fight, is determined and say what you will, but "Pocket Rocket", in my opinion, will be just as tough or tougher than any of Dunne's opponents thus far...if these two ever get to fight, and if, McCullough can get passed whoever he is to fight.
McCullough's comeback is based on winning a title one more time, whether he is capable of winning a world title is a matter of debate (though the smart money says no...well, hell no) but what of a European belt? Ironically, McCullough's choice opponent, whom his eyes are set on is none other than undefeated Bernard Dunne, the European champion.
What are his chances? Well...Dunne is 23-0 with 16 KO's. His opposition thus far has been against some very decent fighters, nothing to scream over, but none the less, solid opponents (least on the Euro level). Dunne is also 27 years of age, so youth will also be in his favor. A younger man facing a 'legend' of sorts, will show he has something to prove and work extra hard to clear all doubts.
The question has yet to be answered, yes I know, but this can't very well be determined until we see McCullough's first fight in over 2 years...which still no opponent has yet to be named. BUT...if we was to be asked, just by looking on paper and knowing what we know of the two men, who would win?
I'd lean towards Dunne, but I do believe that McCullough just might be his toughest fight to date. Why? More experience, big name, big reputation can play big psychological advantage...plus McCullough, despite his problems in recent years, has solid skills, is quick, has a good work rate, and his last two fights were for the WBC Super Bantamweight title. The latter may have been a KO loss, but the first fight went the distance and on scores of 116-112, 118-110, 118-110. Pretty decent for a man whose 37 [35 at that time] and who had brain damage (blood clot?).
McCullough is now cleared to fight, is determined and say what you will, but "Pocket Rocket", in my opinion, will be just as tough or tougher than any of Dunne's opponents thus far...if these two ever get to fight, and if, McCullough can get passed whoever he is to fight.