Former WBO bantamweight titlist Jason Moloney looks to take the next step towards becoming a two-time world champion.
The 35-year-old will take on Andre Donovan at Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley in Queensland, Australia, on Thursday. "It's been over 5 years since I've headlined a show, so it feels great to be back where I want to be," Moloney (28-4, 20 KOs) told The Ring . "I know winning this fight will be a giant step towards another shot at a world title so I'm extremely motivated to put on a great performance and earn that shot." Moloney is acutely aware that his American opponent, who is riding a 12-fight win streak, will see this as a big opportunity to gatecrash the bantamweight division. "I'm sure he's been waiting for a big fight like this, and know first-hand what it's like to travel across the world to fight," he reasoned. "He won't be coming here to make up the numbers; he will be coming to fight and that's exactly what I want." He freely admits he doesn't know much about what to expect from his rival on the night. "I've seen a short bit of footage," he said. "He's a strong, southpaw who likes to come forward, so I'm expecting and preparing for a hard fight." Having turned 35 back in January, Moloney is one of the elder statesmen of a stacked bantamweight division but still feels he has a lot to offer. "I still feel like I'm at my best and I believe that when I'm at my best, I can beat everyone in this division," he said. "My goal is to become world champion again and I'm hopeful that I will get that opportunity before the end of this year. I know how important winning this fight is and I'm ready to do whatever it takes." Meanwhile, his long-time manager Tony Tolj is plotting his next move alongside Mick Francis and Tasman Fighters. "[They're] keeping Jason active and believe the team vision of Jason becoming a two-time world champion," said Tolj. "April 23 is a tough fight but I know Jason will be more than up for the challenge. Mayhem is coming to Brisbane!" Donovan (12-2, 8 KOs) turned professional in 2021. He lost his second and third fights when fighting outside his natural weight class at junior welterweight and featherweight against unbeaten hopefuls. The 29-year-old southpaw has since reeled off 11 wins against middling opposition and will end a year-long layoff come April 23. Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at elraincoat@live.co.uk and you can follow him on X @AnsonWainwright
