THE biggest names in world boxing are chasing Michael Conlan’s signature as he considers a switch to the professional ranks following his controversial Olympic Games exit.
Conlan found himself on the wrong end of an inexplicable unanimous decision defeat to Russia’s Vladimir Nikitin on Tuesday, but the reigning World and European champion has been inundated by promoters and managers ever since.
Interest is particularly high in America and England, with representatives of US boxing mogul Al Haymon – regarded as the most powerful man in the sport – getting in touch with Conlan before the Games, and since his high-profile exit.
The Irish News revealed before the Olympics began that Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions were keeping an eye on the 24-year-old, with head matchmaker Robert Diaz confirming Conlan was one of those who would be scouted in Rio.
Eddie Hearn is also sure to be following developments with interest too, the Matchroom boss tweeting Conlan during the week.
With no shortage of suitors, Michael’s older brother Jamie has advised his younger sibling to take his time before making a decision.
“Al Haymon was in contact before Michael even threw a punch but my dad sheltered him from it all,” revealed Jamie Conlan, himself an undefeated 17-0 pro at featherweight.
“At the minute he’s getting bombarded left, right and centre – promoters, managers and other boxers alike, all over the world, but especially in the USA and England. People looking to get in contact with him and looking to meet him.
“I’ve told him to take his time, sit down and think, spend time with his family. He’s going to go on a few holidays, keep his mind off Rio. This will not define Michael Conlan – he’s got bigger, brighter and better days ahead.
“Now it’s how he puts this in a positive light and uses it as a force to drive him on to better things. But he’s as talented as anyone else this has happened to, and I expect him to go on and do big things.”
Insult was added to injury for Michael Conlan yesterday morning when it was confirmed that Nikitin wouldn’t contest his semi-final against American Shakur Stevenson as a result of the injuries sustained in that controversial win over the Belfast fighter.
Despite not contesting the bout, Nikitin takes home a bronze medal, while Stevenson will face Cuban Robeisy Ramirez in tomorrow’s final.
Missing out on the opportunity to face rising star Stevenson – who has already agreed a deal to turn pro with former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather jnr after the Games – was also a source of frustration for Conlan, as that bout would have caught the attention of boxing figures across the world.
Despite the extra few days for his man to prepare, Team USA head coach Billy Walsh – who led Ireland at the past three Olympics Games – was disappointed the pair weren’t meeting in the last four.
He said: “The best boxers should meet at the Olympics and one of the best has been denied his chance by poor judging.”
