PROMOTER Keith Mayo is expecting a sell-out crowd to pack the Oasis Centre on October 17 when professional boxing returns to Swindon for the first time in two decades.

Mayo is the first Swindonian since Ricky Porter to hold a promoter’s licence, and he is determined for his debut show to pack a real punch.

Former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Jamie Cox tops the bill for “The Professionals are Back,” which also sees Swindon Super Middleweight Marlon Reid make his professional bow.

“We expect it to be a 1,700 sell-out, so it’s really exciting stuff,” Mayo told the Advertiser at yesterday’s official press launch.

“Getting a promoter’s licence is something I’ve been looking at for some time, I just wanted to make sure the timing was right.

“There’s a lot of interest in boxing in Swindon, a lot young lads coming to the clubs who want to get involved.

“I want to make sure people get good value for their money and some of the matches we have lined up are very exciting.

“Big Ben Harding is fighting somebody he recently drew with, so there’s going to be a grudge match there.

“We’ve got three lads making their pro debuts, and it’s very exciting for them too.”

Alan Newdick, of main sponsors AA Drainaway, said he was thrilled to be involved in the return of pro boxing in Swindon.

“To see professional boxing return to the town is unbelievable and we’re delighted to be the main sponsors.

“It’s great for the youngsters at clubs like Walcot and Penhill to see what they can aim for. I’m really looking forward to the show.”

Fellow sponsor Sadik Ali, from The Khyber Restaurant, said: “This is going to be the big one.

“Boxers like Jamie Cox and Marlon Reid are an inspiration to kids in this town. Swindon needs something like this and I think it will be a big success.”