Debutant watch - Andrew Townend
They say success breeds success. If this saying is proved to be true then Andrew Townend’s first taste of professional boxing should set him up for a long and prosperous career. Andrew has set up camp in deepest Yorkshire with Jamie McDonnell who currently holds the British, Commonwealth and European bantamweight belts and is surely not too far away from a genuine world title shot.
22 year old Andrew, from Barnsley will make his debut this Friday against Robin Deakin (1-38) in a four round lightweight contest in Doncaster.
What made you want to start boxing?
“I started when I was fifteen and the idea was to just toughen up a bit. I really enjoyed it and have just kept at it ever since.”
Did you have a boxing idol when you were younger?
“I didn’t really have an idol growing up, I just wanted to box myself. The fighter I really look up to now is my stable mate Jamie McDonnell.”
Did you do much amateur boxing?
“I had 49 fights but I cant remember exactly how many I won, but didn’t lose many! I got to the Junior ABA final and boxed a lad called Robbie Davis who beat me on points. I boxed Ronnie Heffron in the senior ABA semi-final. I got to the semi-final the next year too. In my first year as an amateur I won a golden belt title.”
How do you know the time is right to turn pro?
“I just knew really, I felt ready to turn over. The way I box I thought it would be easier than the amateur style of just trying to nick points and that."
Do you see a difference in the pro and amateur codes?
“Yeah, I can see a huge difference already, I’m not jumping about as much any more and therefore not using as much energy. I am actually finding it easier as a pro. I was getting fed up with opponents jumping in and getting a point and then grabbing you for the rest of the round.”
Do you work full-time alongside boxing?
“I’m a full time roofer, it keeps me fit running up and down the ladders too. I go running before work, then work all day, go home for half an hour then I’m off to the gym for my training sessions. It’s hard work but you’ve got to do it.
What sort of fighting style do you have?
“I like it when the fight gets rough, I like to be in there and get involved. I like a good tear up instead of getting in and out of distance. My style is one that the fans will like and I want to try and get as many fans on my side as possible so they come to watch me again.”
What ambitions/expectations do you have for your pro career?
“I’m starting off small and then will go looking for an area title or something then the sky is the limit. I have been sparring a lot with Jamie and trained with him all the way through camp for the Stuart Hall fight which has really helped me.”
