Gerard Hughes on Ruadhan Farrell grudge rematch: 'I can't wait to punch him in the face'

Gerard Hughes insists he is revelling in the verbal sparring with Belfast rival Ruadhan Farrell ahead of their grudge rematch - but he can't wait to finally let his fists do the talking.

The pair have been trading insults in recent weeks as the build-up continues for their showdown at the SSE Arena on August 3.

Their first fight back in December ended in a controversial draw, with many believing Farrell was robbed of victory. The contentious decision has left both men with a point to prove.

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Hughes believes the flak that followed that first meeting has only ramped up the hype surrounding their rematch, and he is ready to deliver a statement performance to silence the doubters.

He said: "To be honest, I just can't wait for that bell to go and I can punch him in the face. That's all I want to do.

"But at the same time, I get a buzz out of the verbals. His fans get involved, my fans get involved, and it stokes the fire in your belly. And I am glad I am experiencing this so early in my career.

"It means when we both move on, we will know how to deal with it. This is all good for the future.

"I enjoy the back and forth, but I just want to fight."

Hughes added: "I have fought at the SSE before and Falls Park. Some big nights. I haven't even been a pro two years yet.

"It is crazy what I have experienced. I have fought in all the main venues in Ireland.

"And this is a big fight for two boxers early in their careers. It is probably because of that first draw.

"This has come very early in our careers, and I can't wait to fight now on what is a great card. We could steal the show on the night, and it is a big platform for us."

Hughes expects a big turnout of fans for August's fight, with the 26-year-old expecting crowds from both Belfast and Ballycastle to be cheering him on.

He explained: "I am from Belfast but moved to Ballycastle when I was young. So people sometimes get confused as to where I am from.

"I lived in Belfast to when I was about 10. My grandparents moved to Ballycastle years ago and I ended up moving there. I was there for my teenage years, but ended up coming back to Belfast.

"I have probably spent the same amount of time in both, so both places have adopted me. I get great support from Belfast and Ballycastle, so when I look at it that way it is brilliant.

"I maybe need a hybrid location name, 'Ballyfast', 'BelCastle' or something."

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