Murray ready to dig deep again

HAD Andrew Murray taken the medical advice offered him, he would never have donned a pair of boxing gloves. But, do date, he has won three national senior titles as an amateur and, as a professional, holds the Irish light welterweight belt.

His early years were blighted by Perthes disease, a degenerative hip condition that left him wheelchair bound for extended periods. However, the young Cavan lad was transfixed by the epic battles between the likes of Chris Eubank and Nigel Benn on his TV screen and he was desperate to step between the ropes himself.

Such ambitions, however, were discouraged by his doctor, who insisted if he boxed, he would end up crippled for life before he was 20. The determined youngster ignored his advice and joined Cavan Boxing Club. Now 25, Murray is unbeaten in nine pro fights and a reigning Irish champion.