BOXING superstars David Haye and George Groves will be special guests at Paddy Fitzpatrick’s new amateur show at the Oasis on Friday next week.

Haye, a former world heavyweight champion, and Groves, the reigning British and Commonwealth super-middleweight champion, will watch on as boxers from all four of Swindon’s amateur clubs step into the ring.

Fitzpatrick, who runs a gym in his own name based at Ferndale Road, hopes to make the event an annual occasion, and he believes the amateur scene is thriving at present with Swindon due to host three shows before the end of the year.

“I had this idea to put this big amateur show on to try and kick-start the new season,” he said.

“Fortunately David Haye and George Groves offered to attend, which helps to generate a lot of interest in it.

“The idea of the show is to bring boxers together from all four boxing clubs in the town and promote the sport.

“I think Swindon is quickly becoming known as a boxing town, especially with Keith Mayo’s professional shows and all the whitecollar boxing around at the moment.

“It seems like there is boxing on all the time in Swindon now.”

Fitzpatrick is hoping to have around 16 amateur bouts on the night, while Haye and Groves will be on hand to meet the public for pictures and autographs.

Anyone who purchases VIP tickets can sit in on a special question and answer session with Haye and Groves after watching the pair’s previous fights.

“It will be great to have David and George here. VIP ticket holders will get to watch their last fights on a big screen and then ask them questions,” continued Fitzpatrick.

“It’s great that they want to support this show and because they are both due to announce their next fights soon, there is a lot of interest in them both.”

Fitzpatrick is confident the night will be a huge success and says it is a positive way to begin the new campaign.

“Most amateurs go straight into competitive action without having had any prior fights,” he explained.

“With a show like this one and the others around, it’s a great way for them to get ready for the new season.”

Tickets cost £15 standard or £40 VIP, which includes the audience with Haye and Groves.

Anyone buying 10 tickets at a time will qualify for a 20 per cent discount.

Tickets can be obtained by ringing Fitzpatrick on 07917 104000 or from the Oasis box office. Doors open at 6pm on the night with the first bell 7.30pm-8pm.