7:50am Saturday 13th March 2010
SWINDON brawler Craig Leadbeater was inspired to have a crack at the pro game after long-time friend Kelvin Young did just that at the back end of last year, writes NED PAYNE.
The 23-year-old cut his teeth in boxing at Penhill ABC, winning the Western Counties ABA middleweight title during his six years there, and now feels the time is right to step up to the paid ranks.
He will be one of a clutch of local fighters taking to the ring on April 23 for promoter Keith Mayo’s latest show at the Oasis Leisure Centre, ‘St George’s Day’, having been recently signed by the Swindon promoter.
“My amateur career was on-off just because of commitments with work,” explained Leadbeater, who was formerly in the construction trade.
“It wasn’t until just before Christmas until Kelvin turned pro that I really started thinking about it. Becoming pro isn’t easy round here, but he had that door opened and I thought if that can happen to me, that will be good.
“Then Keith turned up and obviously opened the door for me.”
Although he does not yet have a named opponent, the father-of-two is finding it difficult to control his excitement ahead of his first outing as a full-time puncher next month.
“I’ve been getting told to shut up about it now. I don’t think I’ve on about anything else to be honest,” he said. “I can’t explain it. Getting in there with no head guard, it’s the real deal. I know I will never forget it.”
Promoter Mayo was delighted to sign Leadbeater and spoke of his belief that he would go far as a Horseshoe Gym fighter.
“I saw Craig box several times in the amateurs and the potential was obviously there,” he said.
“He has been really impressive in the gym, putting in masses of work.
“I would not have signed him unless I felt that he had the qualities to succeed as a professional.”
Also taking part in next month’s ‘St George’s Day’ show will be Swindon middleweight Marlon Reid, as he targets his sixth win in seven fights.
Kelvin Young is set for his third pro outing while cruiserweight Henry Smith, newly moved to the Swindon area, will also compete.
Polish flyweight Alicja Dabrowska will be aiming to make it two wins from two while Liam Richards (Melksham), Nick Blackwell (Trowbridge) and Chris Higgs (Lydney) are the other names announced so far.
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