Irish boxing legend Barry McGuigan believes that Paddy Donovan has what it takes to go to the top of the game.
Donovan is quickly building a big reputation that he will look to grow further when taking to the ring on the undercard of Katie Taylor's fight with Chantelle Cameron at the 3 Arena next weekend.
The 24-year-old is undefeated in eleven professional bouts and will take on English boxer Danny Ball (13-1-1) in Dublin next Saturday.
READ MORE: Chantelle Cameron v Katie Taylor 2 sold out as Matchroom give update on tickets
In recent weeks, Donovan has been sparring with another fast-rising prospect in Adam Azim, who was crowned European light-welterweight champion last weekend after stopping Franck Petitjean in the tenth round of their fight.
Azim is trained by Shane McGuigan, whose father Barry pointed to the top-quality preparation Azim had for the fight, including 'spectacular' sparring sessions with Donovan.
McGuigan: "He sparred with Paddy Donovan in the build-up to this fight, and the spars were spectacular.
"Donovan is a welterweight and one of the best welterweights in Europe right now, probably could win the European title right now."
Azim himself said Donovan was "an exceptional fighter, very classy.
"It’s great sparring because we are both counterpunchers, so we are in the centre of the ring working on a lot of stuff.
“I had him in for two weeks and it’s a honour to have him in because he is a great fighter. I respect him. He is going to do massive things in the sport and for Ireland.”
Donovan has also been tipped for big things by heavyweight king Tyson Fury.
“I think Paddy Donovan is one of the stars of the future,” Fury said.
“He’s definitely the biggest prospect in Irish boxing at the moment. He’s a very, very talented young fighter and he’s had a lot of amateur experience.
“He can punch hard, and he has got the boxing IQ, He’s had great tutelage with my cousin, Andy Lee. I think he’s going all the way, Paddy!”
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