Barry McGuigan: Josh Taylor on cusp of world title fight

Barry McGuigan believes Josh Taylor is on a path to glory that will see him realise his dream of winning a world title within the next 12 months.
Barry McGuigan, right, and his fighter Josh Taylor in the background. Pic: Ian GeorgesonBarry McGuigan, right, and his fighter Josh Taylor in the background. Pic: Ian Georgeson
Barry McGuigan, right, and his fighter Josh Taylor in the background. Pic: Ian Georgeson

The Cyclone Promotions chief has lined up former world champion Miguel Vazquez as the Scot’s next opponent at super lightweight on November 11 at Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre.

McGuigan admits he is taking a risk putting his man in the ring with a fighter that held the IBF lightweight strap for almost five years straight.

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But he reckons the tough 30-year-old Mexican is just the test WBC Silver Champion Taylor needs if he is to prove his contender credentials.

“You saw last time out against Ohara Davies what Josh can do,” McGuigan said. “Davies was a very dangerous guy but he took care of him very succinctly in Glasgow.

“He’s a world-class talent but the problem with guys like him is that if you tread water too long, they can get bored and waste a lot of time in the gym.

“But Josh has the kind of innate boxing skill that means we can move him aggressively. We can start at a fast pace and just keep going.

“I don’t want him to be waiting too long. I want to get him into a world title fight within a year.”

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