Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) looked in peak condition as he floated around the canvas in front of his beloved North East faithful.
The public workouts gave a taster, as the lively Newcastle crowd showed up to support ‘PBK’ as he showcased his speed ahead of his WBO International Super Welterweight Championship, live and free-to-air on Channel 5 from 10pm.
“It’s beautiful being back in the North East. I feel like the energy is different here, and I bounce of that energy,” said Kelly. “We’re all home grown, we’re from the salt of the earth, so if we get that energy on Saturday night we’ll be pumped and ready to go out there and get the win.”
It will not be an easy win that the former Olympian goes in search for.Should he overcome the stern test of Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs), he knows a potential North East collision could take place for the British title, with Troy Williamson someone who sits on his radar.
“I 100% want that fight,” said Kelly. “The North East doesn’t get enough of these shows up here, we’re fighting people and I’ve fought all my life.”
“Here I am, when you’re born in the North East you’re a fighter from the start; there’s no luxuries. That fight is a massive one for the North East, and I’m game to take it. After I get the win here on Saturday, lets get it on.”
With such a rousing reception for Kelly at the public workout, the Sunderland fighter asked that all the excitement and support be taken into Saturday to offer backing to the entirety of the stacked fight card.
“There’s some quality fighters on the card Saturday night. It’s giving some of these North East fighters the chance to show what they’ve got. The more shows we can get up here, the better. There’s so much talent, it’s going to be a great night.”
He continued, “I’m appreciative of everyone. Lets all come together on Saturday and make plenty of noise, not just for me but for all the local fighters on the card. It’s gonna be one hell of a show, and we’ll have the place bouncing. Lets go!”
Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) goes in search of his second professional victory against Dimitri Trenel (8-1, 4 KOs). One of the North East’s most exciting boxing prospects, the 27-year-old cannot wait to showcase his skills and add another win to his record.
The fighter has made a fluid transition into the professional ranks, and feels right at home as he goes in search of another big win in front of a televised audience. He is always excited to be fighting in his home of the North East, and cannot wait to showcase his development and do the business.
“It’s unbelievable to be back. I’ve been fighting all over the world with Team GB, every country you can think of, so it’s good to come back and fight in front of my home crowd and my family,” said McCormack.
“If I can get him out there in the first, then I’ll get him out there in the first. I’m not going in there and trying to knock him out straight away; I’m going to use my boxing and show everyone what I’ve been learning with Ben (Davison) to put on a good show Saturday night.”
Harlem Eubank will be looking to establish himself as the latest star name from his famous boxing family. The nephew of British boxing legend Chris Eubank Snr and cousin of Chris faces Mexico’s Eliot Chavez in a hotly anticipated Super Lightweight showdown.
It will be Eubank’s second Channel 5 fight, and he is looking to use the terrestrial platform to continue his surge towards titles. Ready to topple anyone who stands in his way, the Brighton boxer has his sights set on plenty more memorable wins like last time out to cement a memorable legacy in the sport.
“Fighting on this platform is great. This kind of activity is just what I need to keep developing my career in the direction I want it to go in,” said Eubank. “I want to make a statement in the sport, and coming out here regularly is what I need to continue doing. I’m excited to put on a show Saturday night.”
I’m in a pure flow state of mind. I’m known for taking any and all fighters and I’ve had the tough challenges coming through the ranks that shows I’ll take on anyone that Adam (Booth) and the team offer me.”
“I’m a true fighter, and I’m in this game to leave my mark and make an impact. The start of that is this Saturday night, and after that; anyone who wants it.”
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