Time is right for Conlan-backed Hale to flip the page
Belfast's John Paul Hale feels the time is right to enter professinal boxing with former pro Michael Conlan guiding his fortunes.
Former Irish Elite and Ulster champion John Paul Hale is set to make his professional boxing debut, as his new manager Michael Conlan believes the time is right. Hale, 25, left amateur boxing after 2021, earning six Ulster titles and competing in the 2022 and 2026 Commonwealth Games. While he had aspirations of winning a medal at Glasgow, he was defeated by Patris Mughalzai in his opening bout, receiving a two-point deduction.
Conlan, who faced similar frustrations during his amateur career, is optimistic about Hale's future in professional boxing. The Belfast native, who will initially compete at welterweight, will start his professional career at The Devenish in north Belfast on November 27. Conlan believes the transition from amateur to professional boxing will be a natural progression for Hale, as he remains grounded and prefers to build his career gradually.
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