Dossen downs Nevin in night of shocks at the National Stadium

Galway middleweight Gabriel Dossen insists he’s still not the finished product despite eliminating a defending champion at the National Elite Championships at the National Stadium on Saturday night.

The Olympic Boxing Club stylist edged Michael Nevin on a 3-2 split decision. The fight, touted as a 75kg “El Clasico” before a punch was thrown, certainly lived up to its billing in what was a thrilling encounter.

Nevin’s exit compounded a disappointing night for the Portlaoise club as his team-mate and defending light-welter champion Wayne Kelly dropped a unanimous decision to Antrim’s Commonwealth medallist James McGivern.

Dossen, who claimed World Youth bronze along with Nevin in St Petersburg 2016, will now meet Derry’s Brett McGinty in the semi-finals on Saturday.

“I thought I boxed very well, I drew my opponent in with my movement,” he said.

“He looked a bit busy, but wasn’t landing as many scores as myself. I’ve still got loads to work on and I’m not the finished product yet.

“The rest of the lads that are left in the weight are still quality opponents.

“My next opponent (McGinty) — we’re similar to each other. We’ve had test spars, so I think it’s going to be interesting.

“He’s a pressure fighter, so that’s just going to bring the best out of me.

“Myself and Michael are mates, I think once we knew that I was moving up to 75kg a bit of tension arose between us.

“Everyone has been waiting to see that (Nevin) fight.”

Defending welter and super heavy champions Kieran Molloy and Dean Gardiner advanced on a unanimous decision over Aaron Daly and a first-round stoppage of Tommy Sheahan on Saturday night respectively.

“I’m very happy with my performance. I felt very comfortable in there,” said Molloy.