Q&A - Jazza Dickens

With a certain other British title fight going on this weekend and a rather significant Super-Bantamweight contest being announced yesterday, the build up to another is seemingly going unnoticed. Ahead of Phil Jeffries' 'Fighting Against Adversity' bill on Friday 20th November, British Boxing Blog caught up with current British Super-Bantamweight Champion James 'Jazza' Dickens. The Scouser defends his Lonsdale belt against local favourite Martin Ward at the Rainton Meadows Arena in what promises to be one of the domestic fights of the year. Read on for his thoughts on the North East, his opponent and Elvis Presley.

British Boxing Blog - Thanks for doing this. We are aiming to cover British boxing in general as well as prioritising the North East, so you fit the bill perfectly with your upcoming bout. We really appreciate your time and look forward to seeing you live at Rainton Meadows Arena. All the best! First of all, how did you find your way into boxing?

Jazza Dickens - My dad and I spent most of our nights training, press ups, pads, stuff like that. He asked me to box for few years but I wasn't interested. At the age of 12 I decided to go of my own accord with my cousin Joey.

BBB - Who would you say was the biggest influence on your career?

JD - My dad is the reason I am the way I am, he taught me how to push through pain barriers and always keep pushing. Franny Hand had a big influence on my character as he supported me from an early age with good advice and wisdom. And every boxing coach I've had especially Paul and Mick Stevenson.

BBB - You have a British title defence coming up against former world title challenger Martin Ward on November 20th, how is camp going for that?

JD - Camp has gone well, 12 weeks out you're not as focused as you are now (3 weeks out) but it's so important to do all the hard work even when you don't feel like it. 4am runs when it's cold, wet, dark. Gym every day, S&C (strength and conditioning), diet, rest. I'm at a point where no doubt can creep in and I can enjoy a performance without excuses.

BBB - What do you know about Ward and how do you see the match going?

JD - I know what I need to know, he's been knocked out by a journeyman and he's fought Stuart Hall for a world title, as well as being Commonwealth Bantamweight champion. It's important that we planned for the best Martin Ward so that's who we hope turns up. I see the fight going how we planned.

BBB - Are you disappointed at having to travel away from home to defend your belt? And will you be bringing many fans up from Liverpool?

JD - My dream is to snatch a world title from who ever is world champion when I get there. On his soil. I think defending my title in Rainton Meadows [Arena] is part of my plan. Experience, learning curves and getting used to the idea. We know Ward is a solid operator and the lads will be coming as always.

BBB - Do you have any experience of fighting in the North East?

JD - Only as an amateur. 5/5 of my national titles were fought up there at one stage or another. I'm glad there's no talking in boxing because we'd need a translator to understand each other ha. Great people! David Binns and Graham from Birtley are 2 of my favourites up that way.

BBB - How much of an impact does your Christian faith have on you as a boxer?

JD - Without God I am nothing, all my glory goes to him. I just enjoy the life he wants me to live. He gave me a good team and a good supportive family, passion, a career. Not many people plan their future at the age of 12, I'm living it now and grateful for the strength he gives to me.

BBB - You gave Kid Galahad all he could handle when you met in 2013. What do you think about his current situation?

JD - I think Kid Galahad was a great movie, Elvis is the King. Barry Awad is irrelevant to my career.

BBB - Who do you view as the best active British fighter?

JD - I don't watch much boxing, just the lads around me in the gym. Andrew Cain and Steven Lewis will be up there soon.

BBB - What has been your favourite boxing match of 2015 so far?

JD - As I said don't watch much boxing but it was nice to see Liam Smith win a world title few weeks ago. And just 2 nights ago Ryan Farrag won the EBU title. That was a proud moment for me and my team mates.

BBB - And finally, what does the future hold for Jazza Dickens?

JD - I aim to be European and World champion but I can't look past Ward.

Jazza can be followed on Twitter @JazzaDickens10 and so can we @britboxingblog

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