Steven Cairns couldn’t take his eyes off the belt — not out of shock, however recognition.
Moments after he received his first profession title, he was nonetheless driving the wave of an enormous night time for Irish boxing. The Cork prospect soaked in what felt like a breakout second. Not the end line, however the first actual signal that every thing he believed was starting to take form.
The WBA Continental light-weight title he received in Dublin’s 3Arena earlier this month is probably not probably the most prestigious; certainly, it’s a extra rating title than glowing accolade, however for a fighter making his approach within the sport, it was enormous.
To not point out the sense of event and the sense it marks the following chapter of the proficient operator’s profession, added to the importance.
“It feels unbelievable, man… have a look at it. It’s fairly,” he smiled when chatting with Irish-boxing.com.
“Within the Irish nationals, you win a medal… you by no means win a belt. It’s my first ever belt – and I really feel lovely.”
It is likely to be his first strap, however the ‘Irish Takeover’ isn’t treating it like a vacation spot. If something, it’s affirmation he’s on the proper street.
“That is only a stepping stone of what’s to return,” he mentioned.
“I adore it and it seems nice, however I’m already what’s subsequent as a result of I do know I can be world champion.”
It’s a daring declare — however not simply blind perception. It’s a mindset that’s beginning to align with actuality.
“I believed it… however now I’m seeing it.”
The size of the event solely bolstered that feeling. A packed home, a stacked card, and an environment that Cairns believes ranks among the many perfect Irish boxing has produced.
“That is the mecca of Irish boxing,” he mentioned.
“This is among the largest exhibits there’s ever been. 10,000 bought out – unbelievable, man. What an evening.
“Till the Croke Park battle comes off, that is proper up there.”
Moments like this hit even tougher once you keep in mind the place it began. Not way back, the Dave Coldwell-trained Insurgent County boxer was residing a nomadic existence.
It was have gloves will journey, because the Munster prospect banked expertise wherever he might. So to battle at house and begin what may very well be a protracted run of fights in Eire is noteworthy for the rising expertise.
“My first battle was over in Spain throughout COVID in entrance of about 40 individuals,” he recalled.
“To return out right here… it’s unbelievable. That is my dream.
“I wish to keep lively, maintain progressing, maintain getting higher – and add extra belts.”
There might even be an enormous night time on house soil forward. Talks are ongoing a few potential Cork return, with the Marquee floated as a potential summer season setting.
“There is likely to be a homecoming in Cork within the Marquee – that will be unbelievable.”
With boxing within the Insurgent County on the rise once more, Cairns believes the chance is there — not only for him, however for the following wave coming by.
“There are nice youngsters there, and so they want a platform to indicate how good they’re. Hopefully, I’m the one to carry that.”
