Boom Boom backs new sporting club
Lightweight champ Ray Mancini…at forefront of Cannock venture
THE glitzy, once cigar smoke days of Midlands sporting clubs are back – thanks to the game’s newest promoter.
And Scott Murray – a businessman who has brought a string of boxing legends to his Premier Suite base in Cannock – launches his exclusive Excelsior Sporting Club on Thursday, March 30, at the Premier Suite.
The proposed four fight line-up – yet to be confirmed - is beyond mouth-watering. Sam Eggington, having his first fight since losing the IBO world light-middleweight title, is scheduled to top the bill. Former outstanding Birmingham amateur Niall Farrell will make his paid debut and one of the region’s hottest prospects Nyall Berry, is set to fight on the show.
That star-studded bill has been put together by Excelsior Club matchmaker Jon Pegg.
Scott, a fine former amateur heavyweight, is being backed by some very big names in the boxing world – including former world lightweight champ Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini. The all-action American champ attended the Premier Suite as an after-dinner speaker and the pair forged a friendship.
Scott – who has gained major sponsors for the venture – said: “Ray has a working relationship with two major US promoters and, through him, we’ll get American boxers on the shows. I’m also talking to Steve Collins’ brother about sending Irish fighters over, so the shows will be real international affairs.
“The plan is to have four shows this year. Then we’ll grow to six, with two taking place in London. We’re already putting together major celebrity appearances for the London events.”
Whisper it, but one of the major celebrities may be heavyweight great Lennox Lewis.”
The March 30, black tie launch will be hosted by TV’s Steve Bunce, former world champ Richie Woodhall and Mancini.
Former Cannock promoter Ron Gray – at the forefront of the Midlands sporting club scene during its heyday – has provided advice for the business blueprint.
Scott added: “I felt the time was right to revive sporting clubs. Each week I sit down with Ron and his knowledge and mentoring has proved invaluable.”
The Premier Suite is certainly braced for a very busy time.
On Friday, March 3, Wolverhampton Boxing Club stages its amateur show at the venue: doors open at 7pm, tickets start at £15. On Sunday, March 5, it’s the turn of Burntwood Platinum Boxing Club: noon start, tickets start at £15.
The big one takes place on Saturday, March 11 – an England v Ireland amateur international, with a Midlands select facing a Dublin select.
Host on the night will be former world champs Steve Collins and Richie Woodhall. Tickets start at £20 and there are VIP tables available.
*For information and bookings ring 01543 572092 or email helen@premier-suite.co.uk