Former world champ Eamonn aids martial artists’ preparations

That is the benefit Ballymena fighters Colin Robinson and Rodney Moore will enjoy as they prepare to strut their stuff in Cage Contender XIII at the King’s hall this weekend.

The duo have been receiving training for their respective contests from locally-based former WBO world welterweight champion Eamonn Loughran.

Cage Contender 13 will be headlined by the Heavyweight Title rematch between UFC Heavyweights Neil Wain and Colin “Big C” Robinson, while Moore takes on american UFC legend Dean “The Boogeyman” Lister in what he has already intimated will be his final contest before focusing his efforts on coaching.

“Rodney and Colin are from Ballymena and I have known them for years,” explained Loughran.

“Colin was into the boxing and then he went into MMA.

“I finished with boxing about 15 years ago and Rodney asked me to help him out for a fight about eight years ago.

“I did and I was very impressed with his fitness, his condition and his determination.

“He then just asked me to help him this time around and I am just helping him fine tune those wee things that make the difference.

“I work mainly on the boxing and I help him with the mind. Just really the same thing as going into the ring as a boxer.

“The sports are totally different but the routine is the same.

“You have to get the confidence stoked up and you have to get the fighter into a positive frame of mind for the fight.

“He is very talented and he is starting to believe it. He is in fantastic shape and his condition is a match for any top boxer.

“There is no tiring him and his recovery is fantastic. His fitness level, his determination and his will to get the job done is top drawer.”

And Loughran – who defended his World title five times – says he enjoys watching Mixed Martial Arts.

“You get to like it. This level of MMA over here is not like the American stuff but they are going to slug it out, they are well matched and it is great to watch.

“I am going up to the show to see the two guys in action and I am looking forward to it,” he added.