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Gareth Fullerton

Overcoming demons and big fight jeopardy - Jamie Conlan backs brother Michael to rise again

Jamie Conlan believes brother Michael "conquered a lot of demons" in his comeback win over Miguel Marriaga, but accepts there will always be a risk of jeopardy with his younger sibling's style of boxing.

Michael proved his class and character against Marriaga back in August, just five months after suffering a devastating knockout defeat to Leigh Wood.

The 31-year-old featherweight returns to the ring on Saturday night against former European champion Karim Guerfi at the SSE Arena.

Read more: Watch: Sean McComb gives hilarious 'cauliflower a**e' fight prediction

And Jamie believes his brother's bouncebackability is something which should be commended.

"Michael conquered a lot of demons in his last fight. Being where he was and what he went through in the Leigh Wood fight, and then jumping straight back in," he said.

"Leigh Wood won the fight, but he hasn't fought since. That's testament to Michael and his mind and body that he wanted straight back in.

"He wanted the August fight to exorcise the demons, so none of them were lingering. He fought a fighter who was heavy-handed and a knockout artist in Miguel Marriaga, and then he kept moving forward.

"This is a different task. Karim carries a lot more speed and moves a lot better than Marriaga. He is better at countering, too. So it is a good test, and one that is needed.

"We could easily have sat on our hands until St Patrick's Day, but if you are in the frame for a world title you have to stay active and keep taking risks.

"I am sure Michael had to overcome some inner demons (after the Wood fight). People asking 'how do you come back?'"

Conlan showed heart in his win over Marriaga, overcoming some late drama in the final round after being caught by the heavy-handed Colombian.

Jamie and Michael Conlan (Getty)

"Michael had a bit of late drama against Marriaga, but that was another box ticked. Michael cleared a lot of hurdles last time out, and that will stand him good stead," Jamie added.

"Fans love some drama and jeopardy, but it might not be good for my heart rate. I was up and down on my seat, all over the place.

"It is what made Bernard Dunne fascinating. People like that element of doubt over a fighter or fight. If there is no risk then people switch off.

"But if there is a risk, then fans love to watch it."

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