Mayor calls on RTE to reverse decision
DISAPPOINTMENT has been expressed at RTE’s decision not to broadcast Southill boxer Willie Casey’s upcoming World Title challenge in Dublin, for which there are no broadcasting rights.
Fight promoters Gary Hyde and Don O’Leary, claimed that RTE are letting the people of Ireland down by refusing to broadcast the fight, scheduled for March 19.
RTE Head of Sport Ryle Nugent, revealed that the national broadcaster cannot afford to show the fight.
Mayor of Limerick Cllr Maria Byrne has called on RTE to reverse its decision.
“I am astounded that RTE has decided not to show what is set to be one of the greatest bouts ever to take place in Ireland, with Willie Casey up against a former Olympic medallist and World Boxing Association champion. The fact that it will take place in City West in Dublin, just a stone’s throw from RTE, makes the decision even more unbelievable.
“We all need a good news story and I hope that RTE and the entire country, will get behind him, when I’m confident that Ireland will have a new World Champion”.
Gary Hyde, manager of boxer Guillermo Rigondeaux, argues that RTE will have serious questions to answer if they show any other boxing over the next 12 months.
“This is the biggest in Ireland this year and it is free for them. I hope people get onto RTE and they are pressured into taking it.
“Willie Casey is a massive name in Ireland now and you cant get a bigger match than a world title bout.
“Rigondeaux is the biggest star since Sugar Ray Leonard to fight here. The people deserve to get the chance to see it”.
