European Games glory AND a place in Paris. That is the aim of Kiaran Macdonald.
The Sunderland boxer is through to the semi-finals in Poland, where victory against Bilal Benamma on Friday would take him through to the gold medal bout and guarantee him entry into the Olympic Games.
Macdonald already has a minimum bronze in Krakow, following two convincing points victories, which would add to two silver medals in 2022, at the European Championships and Commonwealth Games.
The 26-year-old feels he belongs at the top table in the division and is intent on proving it at the European Games and beyond in Paris, having emerged confidently from the shadow of Galal Yafai.
“There is no reason it can’t be me, I’m right up in the mix at flyweight,” the Wearside southpaw told punch-lines.
“It’s not been an overnight process. I’ve been in the squad now for seven years and previously I was behind Galal in selection for the majors.
“I hoped I played my part in helping him to his Olympic gold in Tokyo.
“But it has also helped me, all the stuff I’ve picked up in the gym, all I’ve learned in the ring with him has made me a better boxer.
“Now I believe it is my time to shine.”
The pair remain united in their work with Yafai training out of the English Institute of Sport gym in Sheffield, where Kiaran is in the GB Boxing squad.
“You can’t get better sparring and I’m still getting that week-in, week-out.” He said.
Given Macdonald has reached his last two finals, he is taking nothing for granted in Krakow.
“I can’t just expect it because I’ve done it before,” said Kiaran, who says he is not upset that there are only two Paris slots available here.
“I’m hoping to go all the way again and this time getting it right on the day.
“I’m not disillusioned at all [about the two Olympic places], of course it would be nice if there were more places available, but that’s just how it is.
“There are three bites of the cherry and this is the first – it would be nice to qualify at the first one.
“I’m just looking to enjoy my boxing and keep my momentum going.
“I’ve had eight bouts this year and not been beaten.
“My first aim was to guarantee a medal and then change its colour.
“Yes, I want to qualify for the Olympics but I want to win that gold medal in Krakow.
“Listening to someone else’s anthem on the podium has not been good.”
Macdonald has looked top drawer in Poland, where he has registered two unanimous points verdicts, against Germany’s Omar Ibrahim before beating an Omer in the quarter-finals, Serbia’s Omer Ametovic.
Next it’s the excellent French boxer Benamma, but Kiaran is relishing the challenge.
“It felt good,” Kiaran told GB Boxing after his quarter-final success. “To be honest, I didn’t really get out of first gear.
“I did what I needed to do and I’ve been able to preserve my energy.
“He was a bit of a tricky opponent, but I’ve got the job done and it’s another bout under my belt.
“I’ll have a good fight on my hands in the semis against the world silver medallist, but I believe I can beat him. I’ve worked too hard for this spot.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: GB Boxing
