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Nicky Fullerton

Michael Conlan feeling 'bulletproof' ahead of Diego Alberto Ruiz clash at Falls Park

A 'bulletproof' Michael Conlan is looking forward to trading shots with Diego Alberto Ruiz in West Belfast tonight.

The featherweight pair will battle it out for the WBO and WBA Inter-Continental titles at the Feile an Phobail.

Conlan is undefeated after 11 fights while Ruiz is on a 10-fight winning streak, so something will have to give when the two collide in the Falls Park.

And Conlan says he is feeling 'invincible' before he gets in a shoot-out with his Argentian rival.

"I feel I am bulletproof and no matter what happens on Saturday night, I am coming out victorious," he said.

"Preparation has been perfect. Physically and mentally I feel I am in the best shape of my career.

The whole thing for me this week in the build-up was to remain focused and ignore all the buzz about the fight. I have done that. We have weighed in and I am ready to go."

And the Olympic bronze medal winner knows that he will have to be on the money as Ruiz will be his toughest test to date.

"I've had a target on my back since the amateur days. Even when I came into the professional ranks there were expectations on my shoulders," he added.

"I know how to deal with the pressure.

"This is obviously something bigger than I could ever have imagined, but I just plan on going in there and enjoying it. When I get into the ring it is all business.

"Over the last six or seven months everything has clicked. I have been training for the fight since April, and I've learnt so much. I believe this is a coming-out party for me and it's the best Michael Conlan you'll see."

A West Belfast native, Conlan is looking forward to starring at the long-running festival.

"I have boxed in Belfast many times as an amateur and once as a professional, but this is going to be totally different. This is going to be in the Falls Park, which is really like my back garden," he said.

"It is something I never imagined would happen during my career, so I am really, really excited.

"This is also a festival that I have attended over the years, so for me to be the main event at this year's Feile is something special.

"It is really exciting and it is really exciting for everyone involved. Especially for my family and myself."

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