Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
‘Dudey’ ready for change of trainer
Former WBA light-welterweight title challenger Paul
McCloskey has decided to switch to a new coach as the Irishman attempts to
set-up a second world title shot in the coming months.
The 33 year-old told his long-time trainer John Breen via a
text message that he is planning on hiring a new trainer for his 27th professional outing, ending what was a successful eight-year pairing between
the two and leaving Breen perplexed.
“As with all my fighters I felt that I did my very best for
Paul and I think his record shows that I did a pretty good job taking him from
the amateur ranks and turning him into a professional,” Breen told The Belfast Telelgraph.
“We seemed to work well together. Paul was a very good
amateur and we got his style to adapt to the pros.
“I got a text saying that he feels that he has to move on
and get another coach which I don’t really understand but that’s up to him.
“I really don’t think I could have done more. I felt I got
the best out of Paul.
“I’m very disappointed that it has come to this point and I
can’t really understand it but I wish Paul all the very best for the future.”
McCloskey was in-line for a rematch with Amir Khan when
out-pointing the Briton’s former conqueror Breidis Prescott in September 2011, although the
wheels came off his charge towards another shot after a shock loss to DeMarcus
Corley six months later.
The Dungiven fighter is now back on track following a wide points
win over Manuel Perez last September and will be hoping a change of approach
helps him secure that illusive second title chance.