The Wexford police officer is pursuing an elusive big-name fight
Friday 16 August 2019 11:55, UK
Niall Kennedy resumes his unbeaten career against a former opponent for Andy Ruiz Jr, but does Ireland's heavyweight need to quicken his climb up the rankings?
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The Wexford man returns to America this weekend, having previously fought 11 times on US soil, and will next face Devin Vargas, an ex-US Olympian.
At the age of 35, Kennedy needs to stake his claim for a big-name fight by quickly forcing his way into title contention.
What sets Kennedy apart from other heavyweights?
He is promoted by Ken Casey of Irish-American Celtic-punk band Dropkick Murphys, combining his professional boxing career with a day job as a member of Ireland's Garda police force.
Kennedy was a late-starter in the pro ranks, beginning in his 30s, and also displayed early talent for GAA.
Has he traded punches with any top contenders?
Not yet, but Kennedy is eager to face a rival contender. He has, however, swapped punches with Anthony Joshua after being called into a training camp for sparring with Britain's heavyweight star.
What was the toughest test of Kennedy's career?
A frustrating majority draw against Joe Caudle is the only blemish on the record of Kennedy, who claimed a 78-74 verdict on one of the scorecards with the two other judges scoring it 78-78.
American Alexis Santos held an 18-1 record when Kennedy defeated him by split decision.
Will Devin Vargas threaten his unbeaten record?
The 37-year-old American was a National Golden Gloves heavyweight champion in 2000 and 2001, but after a promising start in the paid ranks, Vargas has suffered a string of setbacks.
He was stopped by Kevin Johnson and Dominic Breazeale, two former opponents of Joshua, while current unified champion Ruiz Jr halted Vargas in the opening round.
Can Kennedy surpass the achievements of Kevin McBride?
McBride, nicknamed 'The Clones Colossus', also spent much of his career in the States and famously sent Mike Tyson into retirement with a sixth-round stoppage victory in 2005.
Kennedy has followed a similar path as McBride, sharing the same cornerman Paschal Collins, and has patiently waited for a chance to prove himself against a notable name.
