I had a decision to make. Turn pro or remain amateur. Staying amateur meant remaining in Ireland and committing myself for another four years to chasing the Olympic dream again. On the other hand, turning pro represented the unknown. It meant leaving my home, family, friends, stepping out of the comfort zone and relocating to The United States of America. I had two good offers. The sports council of Ireland had put together a package which included funding, sponsorship of a new car and education. It was a great offer. Emanuel had also made me an offer, a five year contract with a good signing bonus and not to mention the chance to working with and be trained and managed my the best in boxing. I was lucky to have two great offers on the table. It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. In the end it wasn't a matter of money that made up my mind. Staying amateur was the safe bet but the allure of a fresh start and a new challenge in America was what swayed me. And so I packed my bag's, said so long to Limerick and boarded an airplane bound for Detroit city.