Michael Conlan faces unbeaten Kevin Walsh in Belfast on Friday with WBC International featherweight title at stake

Michael Conlan defends his WBC International featherweight title against unbeaten Kevin Walsh on Friday in Belfast, live on DAZN. The result will affect his position in the WBC rankings at featherweight.

Add East Side Boxing as a preferred source on Google

Conlan (18-3) returns to the Copper Box Arena looking to hold his place in the rankings, but he meets an unbeaten opponent in Walsh (19-0) who is stepping in to test him over the full 12 rounds.

The build has been direct. Walsh has called for an early finish and made his intentions clear.

“I’m a small kid but I punch like a fg middleweight though,” Walsh said.

Conlan pushed back without giving ground.

“I’ve fought bigger punchers than you!”

Walsh has also predicted a first-round stoppage. Conlan kept it measured.

“I think Kevin is a bit delusional. But ok, show me it.”

Conlan keeps his straight shots sharp. When he establishes distance early, he can control the tempo, pick his shots, and keep opponents from setting their own work.

Walsh brings forward pressure. He steps in behind his shots, throws in combinations, and looks to close the distance quickly. His unbeaten record has come against fighters who haven’t been able to slow him down or force him to reset his feet under pressure.

This is where the fight will turn. If Conlan keeps Walsh at the end of his jab and forces him to reach, he can take rounds clean. If Walsh gets inside, pushes him back, and makes him work in exchanges, the fight becomes tighter and more physical.

Conlan acknowledged the test.

“I am ready and excited but know I face a very tough opponent in Kevin Walsh, who promises to bring the heat.”

For Conlan, the path is clear. Set the distance early, keep the jab working, and let combinations go when Walsh steps in. If he allows Walsh to dictate the exchanges, he gives away the kind of rounds that matter at this level.

The WBC International belt keeps him active in the sanctioning order, with stronger opposition ahead if he holds his position.