DANA ‘Deadly’ Coolwell will be entering the ring for the first time in 2024, against Filipino south paw, Fernando Tagpuno Jr, for the IBO Inter-continental Featherweight title.
The bout will be fought at the Caloundra RSL on March 23, and will be Dana’s first fight under P4P Promotions.
His opponent, has won seven of his nine bouts, all of which were by KO.
However, this will be Fernando’s first Australian and international bout.
Dana is aware of this heading into the fight, and is planning to not let this get in the way of his first win of the year.
“I’ll have to be on my A game with my opponent, all his wins come from KOs so I’ll have to stay sharp and box smart,” he said.
“I’m preparing for this fight like all the rest.
“I’m training hard and making sure I leave no stone unturned.”
Coolwell’s last fight earned him the WBA Oceanic Featherweight title, the first of many titles he hoped would lead him to a world title in the near future.
“I’m feeling good and confident, can’t wait to get back in there and start the year strong,” he said.
“It’s great getting to fight for another title and with this one it could launch me into a world title later this year.”
Dana added that he and long-term coach and owner of the Hinterland Boxing Club, Steve Pitt, have been working on new skills to improve his craft, heading into his March bout.
“We’ve been working on a few new things in the gym to ensure I walk away with the win,” Dana said.
“But the main goal is to earn his (Tagpuno Jr) respect early and stay sharp.”
Coolwell has had many local bouts in Brisbane against boxers such as Manuer A Matet, and Angelo Beltran in his most recent bout in Mooloolaba.
Dana has been on fire, winning all of his 2023 bouts, and hasn’t lost since his fight against Ender Luces for the IBF Youth Super Feather Title.
Now, he gets the home advantage once more, fighting just half an hour away from his home town.
“Getting to fight in front of a home crowd again is only going to bring the best out of me,” he said.
“Chasing my dreams and doing what I love especially so close to home is awesome.”
kirra@gcnews.com.au
