A Clondalkin man has fought severe gambling and weight issues to bounce back and turn pro in the world of boxing.
Paul McDonnell, will be marking the end of a turbulent six years, after he found himself a bookies regular and things got so bad that he weighed over 120kg, meaning his chances of turning pro were looking slim.
McDonnell was, during one of his most testing times, gambling the money he made from his business, admitting: "When I stopped training, it became a hobby. I have my own business, but I was going in gambling all the money from my business.
"I remember gambling €3,000 on a horse! I was constantly chasing money, and constantly in debt."
This secret life of gambling was even hidden from his partner of six years.
Last August brought a fresh dawn for him, as he finally kicked the gambling. He said: "I visited a hypnotherapist in August who helped me out big time. It's really worked out well for me after. I have not put a single bet on since."
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As well as beating his gambling addiction, he has lost an incredible 30kg since November, now weighing 92kg, and aims to weigh in at 12.4 stone by the time his first match comes along.
McDonnell was due to take part in first pro match on March 30th, but a cruel injury to his bicep tendon has led to him being prescribed an eight-week recovery time.
25 of May is now the date McDonnell has his sights set on for a return, and he will be looking to announce himself with a victory.
