Debutant watch - Billy Lavelle

19 year-old Billy Lavelle will be looking to impress the York Hall crowd when he make his first appearance as a professional fighter on Steve Goodwin's fight card on the 8th October.

Billy, who lives and trains in Chichester, will be competing in the lightweight division.

As part of BoxRec News' summer series on boxers turning pro in the new season Billy took some time out of training to talk boxing.

How did you first get involved in boxing?

I started when I was about five years old. My dad has been into boxing since he was young and I started going to the St Peter's Club in south east London where he was a coach. My love for the sport started then and has been growing ever since.

Did you have a boxing idol when you were younger?

When I was young I always watched the Ricky Hatton fights, I loved what he did for British boxing. I have always been a fan of Mike Tyson too.

Did you do much amateur boxing?

I had 20 amateur fights. I won 8 lost 12 - some were bad decisions! I fought out of the St Gerard's ABC in Chichester which was my dad's gym. I had my first amateur bout when I was 12 and my last one when I was 17.

How did you know the time is right to turn pro?

I didn’t think my style was perfectly matched for the amateur game at the moment. I thought I’m going to turn pro one day so why not make it now?

Do you see a difference between the pro and amateur games?

I really feel that professional boxing and amateur boxing are like two different sports, in terms of they way they are governed and how the actual fighting is done. The amateur sport is all about scoring points early and if you’re ahead in going into the final round basically you just run to preserve your lead.

Do you work full time alongside boxing?

I will be starting an electrician's apprenticeship really soon. At the moment I am training full time but soon I will be mixing the training with my job.

What sort of fighting style do you have?

One of my main assets in my fitness. When I make my debut I think my fitness and constant pressure is what will win me the fight. Depending on who I am fighting I can adapt my game. I love a good body punch! if the opportunity arises to bang in a big body shot then I will be there.

What ambitions and expectations do you have for your pro career?

My ambition is to be the best. I would love to be a world champion one day. That’s my goal. Because I am starting so young I have got time on my side to gain the experience and slowly work my way up.