Gaughran reveals Farrell’s plan to derail Loonam in Irish title showdown

Ian Gaughran has told Ruadhan Farrell not to let Paul Loonam find his rhythm when the pair meet for the Irish super bantamweight title on the National Stadium dance floor.

‘El Nino’ is chasing a second reign as Irish champion when he takes on the Offaly native on JB Promotion’s Judgement Day card this weekend.

His manager expects a tactical battle between two fighters with contrasting styles and believes not letting former amateur standout Loonam find flow in a ring he has enjoyed an abundance of success in could prove crucial to the Belfast man’s chances.

“It’ll be very important for Rudy not to let Paul get into a rhythm,” Gaughran told Irish-Boxing.com.

“I think Paul is very much one of those kind of fighters — if you let him into a rhythm and he gets going, you’re in trouble.

“Rudy’s obviously long, tall. Paul is quick, exceptional movement. This has the potential to be about who is committing at the right times and who’s actually having the success at the right times.”

While some fans may expect an all-out domestic war, Gaughran believes there is also the potential for a highly technical contest.

“I think they have enough boxing ability for the first four or five rounds anyway to be not a chess match, but I think a high-level boxing match.

“Rudy is going to have to disrupt Paul’s rhythm,

“We are going to have to stay long at times, get inside at times, use what kind of attributes that they have.”

Farrell has spent the final stages of his camp in Spain, with Gaughran and has sparred with Ireland’s favourite away boxer, Kiko Martinez.

The IGB entertainer has also been working with former world champion Brian Magee on strength and conditioning.

The manager believes the former title holder has made significant improvements during the preparation.

“He’s a stronger version of Rudy Farrell than we’ve probably ever seen,” Gaughran adds.

“We know how good a fighter Paul is but we have faith in Rudy.”