MGM Manchester weigh-in 19/2/16

The good name of Macklin’s Gym continues to spread. Having witnessed first-hand the classy set up of MGM Scotland, today is the turn of Manchester. And it does not disappoint. The logo adorns every wall of Johnny Roye’s gym in Preston. There is a nice blend of the modern brand that seems so important in today’s sport, yet the old school ethic of a boxing gym remains. Pictures of the greats such as Ali are present, along with multiple titles from the world of Muay Thai. Situated in unassuming surroundings, I had to ask for directions but once you’re in, the place oozes professionalism. There is everything an aspiring boxer needs. The equipment is immaculate and gym prestine.

When I arrive, Roye is busy with emails but he is more than hospitable and welcomes me straight away. So much is made of preparation in this sport and it is clearly high on the agenda here. British Challenge belts are laid out along with the scales in anticipation of the weigh in. At this point I’m arguably more excited than those involved! We have a little bit of a wait until the weigh in begins but this gives me the opportunity to explore the facilities.

First of the boxers to arrive are the opponents of Kofi Yates and Liam Conroy, Yousef Al Hamidi and Krzysztof Golec respectively, who share the same trainer. They are invited to test out the scales as pleasantries are exchanged. Even at this level, there is a mutual respect between the two camps as they share stories of the differences between the amateurs and pros.

Onto the scales then. Michael Ramabeletsa (who was sporting a rather dashing red Ferrari tracksuit and matching Armani briefs) weighed in without a hitch for his British Classic Featherweight title match, as did Liam Conroy ahead of his equivalent Light-Heavyweight contest. It was not plain sailing for Super-Lightweight Kofi Yates however. No one was quite sure what the issue was and Yates did not seemed phased in the slightest, even when the opposition trainer wanted a percentage of the purse. Any issues were ironed out with a phone call and a few heated words and the fight goes ahead as planned.

We will be providing live updates of the full card from ringside. Big thanks to Johnny and MGM Manchester for allowing us such fantastic access.

#MGM #Manchester #Preston