RTÉ are stepping up (sort of).
The first professional fight of Michael Conlan’s career is going to be shown on RTÉ Television, the first time our national broadcaster has shown pro boxing since 2011.
According to journalist Kevin Byrne, full highlights of Conlan’s fight against Tim Ibarra in Madison Square Garden will be broadcast by RTÉ.
However, it will be delayed by a day.
The fight will take place on St. Patrick’s Day, with RTÉ planning to show it on 18 March, directly AFTER Ireland’s Six Nations clash against England.
WORD is Michael Conlan's pro debut from Madison Square Garden will be shown, deferred, on RTE one night later on March 18.
Happy Paddy's!
— Kevin Byrne (@KevByrneBox) March 8, 2017
“I’m honoured and privileged to make my professional boxing debut in the mecca of boxing that is Madison Square Garden, fighting in the world’s most famous arena in my professional debut on St Patrick’s Day,” Conlan said earlier this year.
“It is something I never dreamed would be possible.
“I have the hopes of a nation behind me and I can’t wait to go out and put on a performance for Ireland on St Patrick’s Day!”
It’s been a full six years since RTÉ last showed a professional bout.
2. There hasn't been a pro show on RTE since Willie Casey lost out to the great Guillermo Rigondeaux in 'bout that broke Irish boxing' 2011
— Kevin Byrne (@KevByrneBox) March 8, 2017
