Silvio Olteanu says Paddy Barnes in for shock

Paddy Barnes is in for a shock tonight, according to former world-title challenger Silvio Olteanu ahead of their WBO European flyweight title clash in Belfast. The pair headline a Waterfront Hall fight bill that will be broadcast live on BoxNation, with two-time Olympic medallist Barnes challenging for his first professional belt, which ensures a world ranking for the winner, in just his third paid bout.

While the Belfast native has cautiously predicted a 10-round points victory, his Madrid-based Romanian opponent intends on spoiling 30-year-old Barnes’ big night by recording a knockout.

“I expect him to start quickly, very fast. That’s normal because he’s younger,” said 39-year-old Olteanu on his expectations ahead of tonight’s bout. “I’ll do my best, I’ll box like I always do and I think I can stop him,” added the Constanta native.