Fighting Chance Promotions Open Workout

As we arrive at the Fighting Chance gym on Tuesday night, the overall professionalism of the outfit is clear to see. Banners, donning the FC logo are in place both inside and out. Their in-house press officer meets and greets us at the door before making sure we are ok.

Entering the gym itself has that mixture of all the clichés. Some boxers are hitting the exercise machines, others literally hitting the bags, and those remaining are preparing to spar. Whether they are operating under the close supervision of trainer Ronnie Rowe or left to their own devices, their motivation and respect for the sport is in full effect. They all know what is expected of them and look to ensure the high standards. A theme which most definitely carried on into the sparring sessions.

Two full sized rings stand side by side at one end of the gym. And this is where the action took place. Ahead of his British title eliminator, Craig Dixon was put through his paces. Remaining in the ring while his sparring partners alternated, Dixon looked sharp and relaxed 5 weeks out from his trip to Paisley, Scotland. Despite having to travel as the “away” fighter, the team are brimming with confidence that their man can get the job done. And having seen him perform first hand it is not difficult to see why.

One of those with whom he shared the ring was Jamie Jones. Jones makes his debut on March 26th, and looked more than ready to step over to the paid ranks. An aggressive, come forward fighter, Jones hardly took a backward step and certainly looks like one to watch in the early stages of his career. Speaking to Rowe, afterwards the intention is to have Jones make the middleweight limit for his debut before reassessing the situation.

Heavyweight prospect Jone TK was in fine form in and out of the ring. A full blooded spar was followed by a friendly chat with yours truly and the big man was the perfect gentleman. Speaking to the fighters at this level, and in this stage of their careers, gives a brilliant insight into just how much they have to sacrifice to compete in such an unforgiving sport. Most of the lads work full time and then hit the gym before or after shifts to hone their craft. TK for example told us how he is currently in the army, does his stint at the gym and then heads home for his tea.

At no point do any of the trainers raise their voice, nor do they need to. As well as the collective desire of the boxers to improve themselves, their respect for the men in charge is almost tangible. They all take on instructions and look to implement them straight away. All the positive stereotypes of boxing are active at Fighting Chance. As well as respect for the coaches, the boxers show a massive respect for each other. Dixon, TK and recent addition Mark White all spoke of the quality of their teammates and understand the benefit of each other. With a lot of them being at a similar stage in their career, and the recent Made TV deal in place, the future is bright for Fighting Chance, and as a result, North East boxing.

Fighting Chance Promotions ‘Genesis’ show takes place on March 26th at Gateshead Leisure Centre.

Big thanks from British Boxing Blog to Fighting Chance for having us and to their Press Officer Nathan Orr for arranging.