Gavin McDonnell v Daniel Roman: '˜I only just feel like I'm getting going' says WBA title hopeful

Gavin McDonnell says he feels like he is still in learning mode as he prepares to challenge Daniel Roman for the WBA super bantamweight title in Chicago.
Daniel Roman and Gavin McDonnell after weighing in for the WBA title fight. Picture: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USADaniel Roman and Gavin McDonnell after weighing in for the WBA title fight. Picture: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA
Daniel Roman and Gavin McDonnell after weighing in for the WBA title fight. Picture: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA

The Dunscroft fighter faces champion Roman on Saturday night and says his relatively short boxing career means he is yet to reach his peak in the sport.

The 32-year-old turned professional in 2010 and is set for his second world title shot in only his 24th bout.

'I only just feel like I'm getting going,' McDonnell said.

'I'm learning so much. I'm improving so much.

'It can't be stopped now.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

'This is meant to be. The fight is meant to be and it's my time.

'I'm 32 but I'm a young 32.

'It's not like I'm 32 and I'm not learning and I'm not hungry.

'I'm learning all the time, I'm enjoying it and I'm determined to win that title.

'Then I can really kick on and have a big couple of years.

'There's so much more to come.'

McDonnell weighed in inside the super bantamweight limit on Friday, tipping the scales at 121.8lb, slightly heavier than opponent Roman who came in a 121.6lbs.

Roman has won 25 of his 28 contests and made two successful defences of his WBA title after beating Shun Kubo to win the crown last September.