The Glossop man was only given the call-up that same day to travel away from home and face 27 year-old Appleyard, who was already 3-0 in his career and had been a professional for some 13 months.
Hague, 21, was highly unfancied going into the contest which took place on Yorkshireman Appleyard’s home turf, but came away with a six-round victory to the delight of his trainer and manager Hatton.
“I think it’s very rare these days that fighters and managers are willing to take a chance on an opportunity that comes their way,” Hatton told World Boxing News.
“It seems young fighters are constantly wrapped in cotton wool and are unwilling to take part in competitive match-ups this early in their career, so hats off to Adam already for that. But what made it even more special was the fact he took the fight on three hours’ notice against a lad 3-0 and fighting in his hometown.
“I was so impressed with his attitude and willingness to take an opportunity like this. I believe it is an attitude seen too rarely these days and shows that Adam has the tools to go a long way in the sport.
“I know it was a close fight, but Adam definitely landed the better shots and I’m delighted that he was awarded the nod 58-57 in a cracking fight. Adam is now looking to build on his great start with a second fight this Saturday at the Magna centre in Rotherham.
“He’s a real crowd pleaser with his attacking style and cracking body shots, so Adam is definitely a young man to keep an eye on,” he added.
Aptly taking the nickname ‘Hitman’, Hague now faces journeyman Jason Nesbitt as he aims to build more momentum following what was an impressive start from the youngster to his early stint in the pro ranks.
