While we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day today, perhaps enjoying a beer or two, middleweight champion “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) is hard at work at his training camp in Monte Carlo with trainer Adam Booth as he prepares to defend his title against former titlist Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, at Barclays Center, in Brooklyn, NY, on Saturday, April 11.
Promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Lee vs. Quillin will air live on NBC at 8:30 p.m. ET, along with the eagerly anticipated contest between Danny “Swift” Garcia and Lamont Peterson, as part of the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) series.
Lee, who is arguably the top Irish boxer in the game today, gave his thoughts on the fight and on St. Patrick’s Day
ANDY LEE:
“I love St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a day for all Irish men and women to be proud and celebrate our history and culture.
“Unfortunately, for me this year there’ll be no Guinness as I’ll be in the gym, but I look forward to celebrating with all the Irish people after I win on April 11!
“Training is all going according to plan. My coach Adam Booth is putting me through my paces and we’re working hard together to ensure that I beat Quillin and retain my title. I’m feeling very strong and sharp.
“I’ve been sparring with three undefeated fighters, Miles Shinkwin, Rocky Fielding and Deion Jumah. I’m looking forward to coming to Brooklyn and defending my title in front of everyone in attendance and those watching on NBC.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment:
“Andy Lee has always been the pride of Limerick. His success has made him one of Ireland’s great champions. The quality of person that he is makes him one of the most liked and respected athletes in boxing. As he prepares to defend his title against Peter Quillin on April 11, he’s getting ready for the biggest fight of his career on the biggest stage possible as part of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC at Barclays Center. As they train and prepare to travel to Brooklyn, New York, both Andy and trainer Adam Booth know how high the stakes are and will be ready for primetime. Happy St. Patrick’s Day to everyone; today we’re all Irish. Andy plans on making it feel like St. Patrick’s Day again on April 11.”
Tickets are currently on sale, priced from $50-$300, and are available at www.barclayscenter.com and www.ticketmaster.com
