Boxing Punchlines: Nyall Berry, 8-0

Nyall Berry, super-bantam, 8-0. From Chelmsley Wood, age 24

Why, when and where did you start boxing?

I started boxing when I was 16 after doing kick-boxing and a bit of MMA. But I always preferred using my hands and I just love fighting. My first and only amateur club was O’Dell’s Community Pride ABC.

What was you original coaching team?

Tina and Craig O’Dell.

How many amateur bouts did you have and what was your record?

I had 25 and won 21, half of them were stoppages.

Any titles won or contested for?

I didn’t have that many fights, but I still won two East Midlands box cups, Haringey box cup, a Midlands title and a national developments title.

Who did you choose for your coaching team in the pros?

Team Eastside - Jon Pegg, Paul and Louie Counihan and Marcus Daniels.

 You began the pro journey in 2022 with a second round win over Luke Merrifield. Tell us about that fantastic debut?

I just went out there and did what I know I’m capable of. All the hard work was done in the gym - I wouldn’t have been happy with anything other than a stoppage. The support was great.

You recently picked up the BBBofC Midlands best prospect award, with former world champ Ray Mancini – at the event – praising you. Has he offered any advice?

It was good to see a legend so enthusiastic about me. He just said I need to keep doing what I’m doing and the opportunities will come.

Title opportunities are not far away. Is the plan to take the traditional route of area titles first, then onward and upward, or is the plan to be fast tracked?

I would’ve loved to have fought for an area title, but with Lewis Morris pulling out, we can’t really find anybody else. I’m hoping to fight for the English super-bantamweight title next.

What does the rest of 2023 and ‘24 hold for Nyall Berry?

Definitely titles. I’m training and grafting everyday chasing titles and, hopefully, I’ll be on TV soon so everyone can enjoy watching my fights.

Interview by DEREK FITZPATRICK