Darragh Foley on Brandon Ogilvie: “I am coming straight for him”

 
THE word dangerous is thrown around often, but in the case of Darragh Foley, the expression might be a perfect fit.

 
The perilous Irish-born lightweight, who presently holds the Australian lightweight title, will challenge world rated Brandon Ogilvie for his WBA affiliated regional title on Saturday night at Sydney’s Netball Central.

 
With only days remaining until the biggest fight of his professional career, Foley is unsurprisingly composed.

 
Foley, 27, is on the home stretch of a three-fight streak that started with the formerly world rated Valentine Borg, followed by the dethroned Australian titleholder Miles Zalewski and now the undefeated Ogilvie this weekend.

 
“I don’t think so, you tell me?” remarked Foley when asked if there was a better domestic winning streak.

 
“But I shouldn’t be praised for taking on all corners. As a professional boxer, this is my duty. I think I have set the benchmark in this country – and it’s good to see others follow suit – this is what will grow boxing in Australia,”

 
Foley was once a lackadaisical prospect who relied heavily on his natural ability. However, a decision loss to Joebert de los Reyes sparked a fire that has resulted in Foley becoming hot property in a cut-throat division.

 
“It takes your dreams almost being snatched from you to realise how much you want it and how much your willing to give,” said Foley on his approach to fights previously and his own turning point.

 
Saturday’s card will mark a celebration of sorts for Sydney’s Irish contingent with the stacked card featuring no less than three Irishmen. Foley believes the support of his countrymen is a driving force for him to keep winning.

 
“Absolutely, and I get asked this question a lot and I can’t quite put my finger on what it is,” he said.

 
“But their energy and passion just drives me. We’re a million miles from home, taking on the world together.”

 
Foley is loquacious by his own nature, but in Ogilvie, he is meeting an opponent who is also willing to trade barbs. In a recent interview, Ogilvie argued that Foley’s demeanour was simply a front for being scared.

 
Despite the high-risk circumstances surrounding their looming fight, Foley isn’t bothered by the war of words.

 
“It’s just another day,” he continued.

 
“The outcome on Saturday has already been pre-determined, I will simply reap what I have sowed.”

 
“Sometimes these opponents forget they actually have to stand across the ring from me donned in eight ounce gloves,” he concluded. “They have to battle after they sign the contract and they get a bit caught up,”

 
“There is nowhere to hide, I am coming straight for him. He will be punished for his words.”

 
 
To purchase the live stream for Saturday night’s stacked card at Netball Central, click here.

 
 
Photo: Peter McDermott Photography