KEITH Mayo is tipping debutant Ryan Martin to follow in the footsteps of IBO Intercontinental champion Kelvin Young and go on to big things.

The 19-year-old former Walcot amateur is on the undercard of Mayo’s latest promotion at the Oasis Centre on March 14 and will be looking to kick on from his amateur success of 28 victories in 33 bouts.

Mayo told the Advertiser: “He’s a really exciting new lad that’s joined us, he’s a had a top amateur career, I’ve been following him since he was about 11-years-old. To get him turning pro I’m so pleased, I expect a lot from Ryan.”

Martin will going up against journeyman Kevin McCauley, a 34-year-old light midddleweight who has appeared on Mayo’s cards before.

Rich Farnan, Young’s trainer had also big praise for Martin: “McCauley is a tough opponent but if I’m honest think Ryan will school him.”

Asked whenther he was looking forward to he professional bow Martin said: “I’m very excited, training is going really good, I’ve had a pretty successul amateur career and I’m hoping I can carry it on into the pros.”

Local favourite Young is set for an eight rounds of three bout against a yet unconfirmed opponent. The fight will act as a new year reintroduction to the ring for Young. Promoter Mayo said he was looking to give Young a bit of break having had three hard fights last year.

“We’ll be looking for Kelvin to defend the (IBO Intercontinental) title around June, in a 10, or maybe even a 12-rounder, so this one is going to be a bit of a stepping stone.”

Young is excited to be getting back in the ring and in front of his local crowd and was feeling ready for his next opponent.

“I’ve had a good break over Christmas, me and Rich have been studying the last few fights to see what we need to work on, building up the strength and training camp is well under way.

“Hopefully you’ll all be able to come and support us again and we’ll put on a great show for Swindon.”

Also on the bill are local fighters Joe Beeden, Lawrence Bennett, Mark ‘Beano’ Reynolds and Ben Fitch. They are joined by Exeter boxer Freddie Kiwitt and former England youth amateur Tariq Quaddas, who is orginally from Peterbrough but works locally. With international flavour coming from Ricky Pow of Alicante, Spain.