Ryan Clark hungry to do double over rival Finnegan

by Sean Lynch

Linconshire’s “teak-tough” Ryan Clark defends his newly acquired International Masters super-middleweight title in a rematch against Jonjo Finnegan at Burton Town on Saturday, July 27 following their initial thrilling encounter last April.

During the first encounter, Clark climbed off the canvas in the second round, after receiving a blow which would tame a lion, to grit his teeth and ultimately cause referee, John Keane to stop the bout for Finnegan’s own safety in round eight of their gruelling contest.

Clark is previously known for his fearless “have gloves, will travel” persona fighting fortnightly anywhere on British soil or foreign lands, providing highly rated prospects with the most sternest of tests. Clarks busy 2011 accumulated in the young fighter going on record as having the most bouts (27) in a Calendar year.

The Carl Greaves fighter has been delighted with his preparations building up to this fight. “To be honest, I’m in the shape of my life” a rejuvenated Clark told Boxing-Ireland.com.

“I had never turned down a fight in my life but I’ve turned down numerous offers in the build up to this. I’m facing Finnegan in the best shape possible. I’ve been getting fantastic sparring & conditioning work. Prince Arron’s even coming to our camp next week.

“The difference training as a champion rather then challenger or a journeyman is phenomenal. It’s amazing how one fight has changed my life, I’ve got a taste of this success and I’ll not be leaving it slip away. I’ve jumped from being ranked number 43 in the UK to number 17.

“To even see my name on a list headed by a warrior like Carl Froch gives me huge confidence.

“I’ve got to give Jonjo respect, he caught me with a huge shot early on but I got up. He knows this time what I’m capable of. Deep down he knows it was a lottery punch. Believe me, it won’t happen again, If I stopped him with only a few weeks notice, we know what’ll happen when I’m in this shape after an 8 week camp. I’ve got youth, power & huge experience on my side.

“I’m just looking forward to putting on a show and knocking Finnegan out in the process” added Clark.

The Lincolnshire man also has his sights set on another rematch. This one being against BoxNation’s- fan favourite, Frank Buglioni.

“I took the Buglioni fight on a weeks notice and you can clearly see I wasn’t in great shape. Up until I faced him, none of his opponents had even made it past the first round. I gave him the fight of his life. I couldn’t miss him with right hands. It’s a fight thats got to happen.

“Frank knew on the night he couldn’t hurt me. On my current form, conditioning, providing proper notice I’m confident I’d stop him & shut those fans of his up!,” bubbled Clark.

Clark, whose recently taken out an BUI (Irish) licence told Boxing-Ireland.com about his Irish heritage. “My mothers family hail from County Mayo. It’s something I’m very proud of. I’ve always wanted that Green belt and it’s a goal I’m intent of accomplishing.”

Ryan also expressed his interest in a potential clash with Ireland’s current SuperMiddle champion JJ McDonagh.

“JJ’s a good kid but Boxings a business and he’s got something I want. I’m sure his people have Carl Greaves number and it’s definitely a fight I’d love once I defend my belt in style,” blasted Clark.