Dean Walsh putting it all on the line against Mayo rival Ray Moylette

For the second time inside 11 months, Dean Walsh and Ray Moylette will clash in the standout bout at the finals of the National Elite Championships, but there is more on the line than national pride tonight (live on TG4 from 7.30pm).

Back in January, Wexford native Walsh came out the right side of a split-decision verdict over his Mayo rival in the 2015 edition of the national championships, and the light-welterweight (64kg) pair renew acquaintances with an additional incentive this evening.

The Irish Amateur Boxing Association (IABA) have opted to host the 2016 championships early to allow time to prepare for next year’s Olympic qualifiers, and the winner of tonight’s rematch will be first in line for the European qualifier in Istanbul next April that offers a passage to the Rio Games.