Boxing Spotlight: Billy Pickles

This will be my seventeenth professional bout and my third ten-rounder since joining the paid ranks in 2016, and I'm hoping for a win.

"These ten-round fights are a test of skill, courage, and endurance as each fighter struggles to prove that he is mentally and physically tougher, and they prepare a boxer for the ultimate challenge of a twelve-round bout.

Billy Pickles - courtesy of McMain Photos

I was delighted to get a fourth-round stoppage against Mutalemwa but obviously distraught with the July result when I got stopped in the eighth.

No excuses but in my defence, I did take that fight at short notice. I’ve been on an intense training camp for the Wainwright fight, and I intend to do whatever is necessary to win especially as it’s in the opponent’s backyard.

"I respect Keanan but there’s a job to be done as I take what’s mine. Actually, it’s a great fight for both of us with the winner likely eligible for a shot at a Commonwealth title. The twelve rounder all boxers crave.

I started boxing training aged ten because believe it or not I wanted to lose a bit of weight to be a better rugby player for my local team in Bramley, where I grew up and still live.

I continued to enjoy rugby and football but before I knew it, I’d had 67 amateur bouts and represented England three times. I love boxing of course the training and the actual fighting, the walking into the ring and hopefully the elation of victory. But I dislike cutting weight. All boxers do. Over the years selling tickets to fights hasn’t always been as easy as I’d have liked. That’s the case for most prospects and contenders until a boxer becomes famous. Or gets a television contract.

That’s exceptional of course, but he was an excellent boxer with a great work rate. I’d like more time to improve but despite getting a fair amount of generous sponsorship I still work full time as a builder fitting training around the job. Or is it the job round training? The fact is it’s like having two full time jobs. I could do so much more and improve further as a fighter if I could concentrate exclusively on my boxing.

I’m lucky really, so I’m taking this opportunity to express my gratitude to HB Tunnelling Ltd., Baker Harding Recruitment, Cheney Pa yroll Services Ltd., Rodley Carpets, EG Foam Ltd., LA Building & Joinery, Hayley’s Yard Kitchen, Club Energy Otley and @Jamiepeacock10. So many thanks.