Jake Ball will be better fighter following first-round KO, says trainer Jim McDonnell
Thursday 15 December 2016 14:37, UK
Jake Ball will be back a better fighter following his shock first-round knockout in November, says trainer Jim McDonnell.
The light-heavyweight prospect suffered his first professional defeat when he was stunned by JJ McDonagh halfway through what was expected to be a routine win at Wembley Arena at the end of November.
Ball (7-1-KO6), known as 'The Blade', was shoved over the ropes by the Irishman before being floored by a vicious left to leave his unbeaten record in tatters.
Trainer McDonnell admitted the defeat was down to Ball's inexperience, but insists the 24-year-old has already learned his lesson.
"Jake took it as a man and we've had a conversation about it since, identified the area where he got it wrong," McDonnell told Sky Sports.
"He just got over-excited. He could see the win and knew what was beyond that fight, just got excited and just ran into a shot.
You won't be seeing him do it again because all the great fighters that have been chinned and hurt have learned from it
"You won't be seeing him do it again because all the great fighters that have been chinned and hurt have learned from it.
"Even if you've got someone hurt, you don't just charge in, you need to feint before going for the finish. Jake learned that the hard way but he will be back."
McDonnell is already in full camp with his leading light, James DeGale, ahead of the unification fight with Badou Jack on January 14, live on Sky Sports.
The trainer believes Jack is 'Chunky's' toughest test and "does everything well", but has used him as an example to Ball.
The Swedish-born super-middleweight was knocked out in the first round by Derek Edwards six fights ago, but has since won the WBC world title, beating George Groves and avoiding defeat against former world champion Lucian Bute.
"It's all about your character," said McDonnell. "Look at where Badou Jack is now. It is all down to Jake's character because we know he's got the ability, but I am sure he will learn and move on.
"He would be back in the ring tomorrow if we gave him the chance but he needs a little break.
"He is still running, keeping fit, ticking over and is having a break away with his family but in the new year he will be straight back in the gym and get back on it."
