Michael Conlan says he can earn a World title shot within 15 fights as a professional.
The Irishman defeated Argentine Luis Fernando Molina on points last weekend at New York’s Madison Square Garden on the undercard for Vasyl Lomachenko’s World super featherweight title stoppage victory over Guillermo Rigondeaux.
With a 60-54 victory on all three score cards, the Belfast boxer moved to 5-0 as a professional.
The Top Rank fighter will return to the ring on St. Patrick’s Day, against an opponent that is yet to be confirmed.
Speaking on this morning’s OTB AM, Conlan stated that he expected to be in contention for a title shot early on in his professional career.
"It’s a different circumstance than with me and Carl [Frampton]. I’m coming off a great amateur pedigree. Two Olympic games, amateur World Champion, and numerous other championships.
"Carl had a good amateur background but he didn’t really have the medals. He didn’t do the two Olympic games. He was young as well. He turned pro around 22 or 23. Carl and me are different, and I think for me, I could have a world title shot in under 15 pro fights, anyway.“
The 26 year-old thinks a World title shot may well happen by the time he racked up 12 pro fights, but he added that his sole focus is on improving and making the step up to contest eight rounds next year.
"It wouldn’t even be ridiculous to have it by 11 or 12 [fights]. It’s that possible at the minute. It’s all about next year, and how everything goes. Depending on what way we move, and what fights we take. That’s why I want it to be eight rounds next, and towards the end of next year. I want to be there or thereabouts for the world titles."
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