Six of the best for Saunders in boxing pro debut
Bradley Saunders
BRADLEY Saunders will take on one of British boxing’s most durable figures when he makes his professional debut on Friday night.
The former World bronze medallist and Commonwealth Games runner-up will face Birmingham’s Jason Nesbitt at London’s York Hall.
Nesbitt has boxed an incredible 152 times as a professional while Saunders is discarding his amateur headguard for the first time after an illustrious career in the unpaid ranks.
His 38-year-old opponent rarely wins but is known as one of the tough men in the game – he has never been stopped since he lost to Gary Sykes in December 2008.
Saunders is thrilled to have been given a six rounder by his promoter and manager, Frank Warren, for his debut – new pros traditionally start over four.
“I want to go all the way to the top – very fast,” said the Sedgefield boxer.
“To start with a six rounder is a statement of intent.
“I feel good, very fit, and I can’t wait to get started.
“I’ve been sparring with Adil Anwar who is the English champion at welterweight, he’s a good kid and has only lost once in 14 fights.
“I was more than holding my own even by the eighth rounds.
“I sparred with three top amateur lads, Lewis Cunningham, Tom Knight and Josh Leather, I did five rounds each against them and it was a good session.
“I know they are not pros, but they are very good lads, and I was getting stronger and better as the session went on.
“I’ve always been very strong in the amateurs and I feel just as good now for the pros and working with my conditioning coach Eddy Ellwood will make me even better.”
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