Doran's trainer fancies his man for the Lonsdale

Tom Doran will move to 6-0 if he beats Jon Musgrave on Saturday on a Hatton Promotions show at Bury. But it will be no cake walk for the Connah’s Quay light-middleweight. Team Hatton are making no effort to hold back the talented youngster and have put him in with a tough domestic operator who has a history of causing upsets, most notably when he defeated Kevin Hammond last year.

Trainer Shane Thomas last night told BoxRec News that his charge is fired-up and ready for the bout.

“He’s looking superb, in fact, this is the best he’s ever looked,” said Thomas.

“Musgrave is a tough fighter and has never been stopped but I’m confident Tom will win. Training has gone perfectly.”

The Shotton ABC coach praised Ricky Hatton and the team for pushing Doran and keeping him active since signing with them earlier this year. He added: “They’re keeping him busy and that’s what I like about them.

“He’ll fight a few more six twos before boxing some six threes and then he’ll be able to go for a title - if he keeps winning of course.

“We’ll have to see where the Hattons take us but I’d like him in a British title challenge next year, I truly believe he’d win it.”

Sam Webb is the current strap-holder and at this stage would be too much for Doran, having recently beaten Anthony Small to take the belt. However, in a year or so he would be more than ready. I think Doran will beat Musgrave on points before moving on towards a regional title shot in 2011. In my opinion, 2012 will be the big year for him, that will tell us whether he’s going to remain a domestic operator or fulfil his potential and move into European or world class.

He’s a special talent and is already one of the best boxers this region has produced, despite being just 22 years old. He has the tools; a good chin, a solid dig and plenty of grit. He has the right temperament and a mesmerising arsenal of punches. Watch this space.