He said: “I can’t wait to get back to Belfast to fight, on this last run towards a world title.” Trainers listen for tone more than content. That line carries the sound of a man counting the remaining walks.
Belt on the table, Sanctioning mathematics in play
The WBC International strap goes with him to the ring, one of those secondary belts that could lift a contender within the ratings once the monthly update lands. Treat it as a ranking tool. Nothing more.
Walsh is younger, undefeated and shaped like a fighter who trusts his engine. Walsh said: “March 20th I’m coming to ring Micky’s bell quick!” It reads like a man planning to start in the sack.
Conlan knows the assignment. He said: “I’m ready and excited but know I face a very tough opponent in Kevin Walsh, who promises to bring the heat.” Good fighters first age through the hips. Check out his pivots after the fourth.
Walsh added, “I’m ready to go 20-0.” Short sentence. Clear target.
Weight is standard for featherweight at 126 pounds, but rehydration often leaves a fight night gap of eight to ten pounds. If Walsh moves in closer to the mid-130s, he’ll try to lean and work the ribs. Conlan needs distance, straight counters, and a disciplined clinch when the younger man lowers his head.
Expect Walsh to push behind busy hands and keep Conlan moving. If Conlan’s legs answer, his jab can send rounds. If they don’t, the visitor will turn it into a rough battle in the middle rounds and force a pace that the veteran may no longer like.
Date: March 20
Start time: 7pm ET, 7pm ET, 12pm UK
Streaming Platform: DAZN
Place: SSE Arena, Belfast
Battle card or results: Michael Conlan vs Kevin Walsh, for the WBC International featherweight title
 brings his WBC International featherweight belt back to Belfast on March 20 against unbeaten Kevin Walsh 19-0 (10 KOs).){kind=link}