PAT MCCORMACK dominated Miguel Parra from start to finish, delivering a disciplined performance for his local fans at the Rainton Meadows Arena.
The fight, which headlined a Matchroom Boxing card just moments ago, was sanctioned as a WBA eliminator, placing McCormack, 8-0 (6 KOs), in a far stronger position as he looks to burst onto the world scene.
At the same time, though, the Northeast banger has expressed a desire to challenge for British honours, perhaps while featuring on the undercard of Chris Eubank vs Conor Benn 2, against Conah Walker.
Should it materialise, their clash would see McCormack gear up for a rapid turnaround on November 15, angling to secure his opportunity at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London.
But regardless of that, the 30-year-old – who was ranked number-seven by the WBA prior to tonight’s victory – is gradually climbing the ladder towards a coveted world title shot.
As for his performance against Parra, 25-6-1 (17 KOs), the term ‘razor-sharp’ immediately sprang to mind in the opening round, where McCormack wasted little time before establishing himself as the technically superior, and indeed more offensively spiteful, welterweight operator.
His polished footwork then made for an especially one-sided display in the second frame, with each angle creating an enticing opening for his potent attacks.
Parra, meanwhile, was simply bamboozled by his opponent’s in-and-out movement, unsure whether a blistering jab, or even a more calculated right hand, would come flying towards his skull.
The Mexican’s durability then appeared to desert him, albeit momentarily, in the fifth round, with McCormack seemingly coming inches away from a grandstand finish.
In that same session, referee John Latham also docked a point from the home fighter, but even after previously warning him for low blows, the call nonetheless seemed a touch harsh.
But either way, there was very little hope for Parra to close the gap on the scorecards, and after several more punishing visits, a particularly ruthless ninth round ultimately inspired the 32-year-old to quit on his stool.
McCormack then doubled down on his desire to face Walker during his post-fight interview, firmly believing that he has the beating of the British champion at 147lbs.
As the mandatory challenger, too, the Olympic silver medallist – whether he appears on the Eubank-Benn 2 card or not – should land his shot at the Lonsdale Belt before long.
