The 33 year-old, who has lost just two of 26 professional bouts and held the European title at 140lbs between 2009 and 2010, had no hesitation in taking on a challenge at the welterweight limit and is now set to have the chance to win the IBO belt in Belfast.
“I have seen some footage of Chris Van Heerden and see exactly how I can do a job on this guy,” McCloskey told World Boxing News.
“Yeah, he is decent as he holds the IBO title, but I am better in every department and with the crowd behind me, I will come out on top.”
The Dungiven fighter is currently being lined up by manager Francie McNicholl to appear in a ten-rounder on the July 13 Matchroom bill in Hull topped by Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell’s professional debut.
A victory for McCloskey will mean it is full steam ahead for the Irishman’s world title challenge in September, with the Odyssey Arena an early favourite to stage the event as Van Heerden looks to build on his recent win over Matthew Hatton.
