Steve Collins Jr, the son of the legendary Steve ‘The Celtic Warrior’ Collins – a two-time, two-weight World champion, has showcased his talent and skill throughout a successful career as a rugby player. But now, the 23-year-old is on the verge of making his pro boxing debut in Dundalk, Ireland on July 12.
People would expect big things from him because of what his Father achieved, but, although he hopes to exceed expectations, he feels that he’s under no real pressure to fill his Father’s boots. Collins Jr has had no amateur experience, so we can’t comment on how his style would fair in the pro ranks. Collins Sr, though, is confident that the British and Irish fans will take to him, because he has a style that will suit the pro game.
“He’s a terrific athlete and is definitely dedicated and a tough kid, you know, and not just in boxing,” said Collins Sr,
“He has a great career as a rugby player too and I personally feel he’s done the right thing, by going straight into the pro game. His style of boxing is right for the pros.” He added, “People are bound to expect him to fight like I did, but no, he has his own style. He’s very much a come forward boxer. He’ll come forward and crowd his opponent.”
Collins Jr is being trained by his uncle Pascal Collins and trains and spars in the Celtic warrior gym in Corduff, Dublin, Ireland. Here are his thoughts ahead of his pro debut:
“Training is going well. I’m training hard everyday, but I don’t get as much sparring as I’d like to get. Not because it’s hard, but because it’s tough to get in heavy guys who are cruiserweight or heavyweight,”
He added, “Stephen Ormond (an Irish pro boxer now campaigning at lightweight), and Gary O’Sullivan (the current WBO International middleweight champion), are always there to help me and offer me advice. They point out my many mistakes. I learn a lot from these guys. I’m always watching and observing them and trying to pick out certain things they do that will benefit the way I fight. I’m very lucky to have them around me all the time, because I have so much to learn.”
In rugby and in boxing, the individual is required to be dedicated and disciplined. To be successful, you have to possess a particular set of skills and a mental quality to separate yourself from the opposition. Collins Jr has played his part on the rugby pitch, contributing to his team’s success, but when he enters the boxing ring he is by himself. In the opposite corner is one man aiming to defeat him.
Collins Jr has trained and sparred hard, He’s taken in advice from many people ahead of his pro debut. On July 12 in Dundalk, he’ll be aiming to bring that all together to win and in the process catch the eye of those in attendance. He is well aware how tough it will be as a pro boxer, but he’s feeling very optimistic.
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