Eric Donovan says Irish boxers have to "seize the moment" at this week's Olympic qualifiers, despite the difficult circumstances.
The IOC Boxing Task Force confirmed last night that the event will go behind closed doors from today as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland, Donovan, who has a professional record of 12-0, said that this might be the last chance saloon for some of the participants.
"The nerves of Olympic qualification in itself is enough to cause you a lot of stress," he told Darren Frehill.
"It must be playing on their minds. This is a very serious thing, we've never had to deal with anything like this. I can imagine it must be very difficult for them, but the thing is the competition is going ahead.
"A lot of these guys might not get a second chance... they gotta just seize their moment, and seize their opportunity as best they can.
"I wouldn't like to be trying to compete in this current climate with the pressures and the seriousness of this coronavirus.
"It's a bit of a weird one really (and) I'm surprised that it went ahead."
It was a good start for Ireland on Sunday, with Emmet Brennan, George Bates and Afanasev Kirill all progressing in their respective divisions.
There was disappointment for Tina Desmond as she lost out to Italian second-seed Angela Carina, but she is likely to have one final chance to book her spot at a world qualifying tournament which is due to take place in Paris in May.
"Three out of four on the first day of boxing isn't a bad return at all," Donovan added.
"Christina Desmond, I suppose there would have been a bit of expectation on her. She's a major medal winner in the past, but she did take a break from boxing.
"But I do know she came up against a very good Italian, a world and European silver medalist.
"She still has another chance in Paris.
"The three lads looked fantastic on Sunday, and they're all into the last-16 now. Brennan and Kirill have to go far in this competition, they might have to win three fights each before they can quality.
"George Bates might need another one; if he can get into the top-eight he will qualify."
Five Irish boxers are set to step into the ring on Monday, with Brendan Irvine, Carly McNaul, Kurt Walker, Aidan Walsh and Michael Nevin all on the card.
