 Murray had wanted to face London based Galway Olympian, Francie Barrett but he stated """I know Francie will want this title but unfortunately negotiations broke down this time...but I know he will not want anyone else to have it""

In any event Murray faced another London based Galwegian the former British Southern Area Lightweight title holder Peter McDonagh for the belt.Murray was a comparative novice in the professional ranks in comparison to McDonagh who was an experienced campaigner having already faced the likes of Peter Buckley, Chilli John and David Burke, whereas Murray had never been past eight rounds.In the opening rounds Murray dominated McDonagh with a higher workrate and McDonagh appeared content to counter punch.