Eric Donovan leaving door open for possible IABA role

Recently crowned European Union super-featherweight champion Eric Donovan is leaving his options open in relation to the vacancy for high performance director at the IABA.

Donovan has not yet made a decision on whether to retire from the sport having completed his goal of landing a European belt last month.

The 37-year-old has come up short in two high-profile bouts in the UK and is likely to receive offers from promoters to defend his title.

With the temptation of going out on a high after a six-year professional career, Donovan will await the arrival of a new member of his family before a decision on whether to fight again.

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Speaking on Today with Clare Byrne on RTÉ Radio 1, he said: "It's a question thrown at me a good few times (on what the future holds).

"My wife and I are expecting a baby at the end of this week and I just want to enjoy this time. I want to welcome our baby boy or girl into the world as European champion.

"We'll embrace these moments and I'll make my decision on a boxing career in a couple of weeks' time."

Bernard Dunne’s resignation from the IABA head position rocked Irish boxing in May amid calls for reforms from the Government and Sport Ireland – many of which have yet to be abided by – as once again internal politics are at the fore in the amateur system.

Irish boxers are currently without a permanent lead and Donovan’s trainer Paschal Collins has called for him to be the man to take over from Dunne.

While admitting the role is appealing, the Kildare boxer is