Paddy Barnes predicts Irish gold rush in Rio

Two-time Olympic bronze medallist Paddy Barnes has predicted that Ireland’s boxers will kick on from their exceptional four-medal performance in London four years ago and return from Rio later this year with an even bigger haul.

The Belfast light-flyweight, who it was revealed yesterday will pick up from where Katie Taylor left off in 2012 by carrying Ireland’s flag for the opening ceremony in Brazil, is himself seeking to become the first Irish athlete to claim medals at three different Games.

“Katie Taylor carried the last time and she came home with a gold medal,” he predicted. “I’m carrying this time and I’ll win a gold medal too. It’s going to be good. For me it’s a great, great honour. I couldn’t believe it. Unanimous decision.”