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How the passing of Dennis Hogan's grandfather led him to reevaluate his career

Dennis Hogan is on the cusp of a momentous achievement. If the Kildare boxer can overcome WBC mi...



Other Sports

How the passing of Dennis Hogan's grandfather led him to reevaluate his career

Dennis Hogan is on the cusp of a momentous achievement.

If the Kildare boxer can overcome WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo in his title challenge at the Barclays Center on Saturday, then he will become a world champion.

As fight week ticks down to his day with destiny, he joined Joe Molloy to discuss what's to come.

"Obviously the nerves creep in every now and again. But that's all part of the week and everything's on track and I'm feeling good," he said.

Hogan will be aiming to claim the belt after having coming agonizingly close to the WBO World light-middleweight title after taking on Jaime Munguia on the Mexican fighter's territory.

Something Greater

"There was never really an anger, it was disappointing," he said of the controversial outcome.

"But it's all in the past now. I know that will set me up for something greater. I said [at the time] that no-one gave me a chance but 'everyone will see' and the opportunity will open. And it did!"

He added that "everything's coming together for the right reason". Hogan is also confident he can trouble Charlo as he did to Munguia.

And he is also aiming to continue silencing the doubters.

"I've always said I'd be world champion and I started to believe it eight years ago," he said.

"And look what's happened since then. I shouldn't be where I am today really in terms of everyone's opinions. So I've got here and I'm ready to do what I have to do."

Success would be even more meaningful as the 34-year-old discussed the impact his grandfather's passing had on making him a more professional and dedicated fighter.

"I remember that moment so well," he said.

"When he passed away those words echoed in my head: Give it everything you've got'. That statement and the portrait of my grandfather are now tattooed onto my stomach, right under my heart. So that's what I've done the last eight or nine years."

You'll be able to watch the full Dennis Hogan interview via our YouTube channel.


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Boxing Dennis Hogan Grandfather Jermall Charlo Joe Molloy Off The Ball Wbc World Champion