Connor: I’m a better, more humble fighter

Connor Goodchild…returns after a year away on May 4

AFTER the trials and tribulations of what the man himself describes as a “commotional” period in his life, Connor Goodchild is back.

And the Sheldon fighter stressed he’s back bigger, stronger and better.

Goodchild, unbeaten in four as a pro, returns after more than a year away from the ring on new manager Anthony Manning’s May 4 show at the Eastside Rooms, Birmingham. In the opposite corner will be Connor Meanwell – a tough, come forward fighter.

The fight will be made at light-middle, but Goodchild’s future is as a welter.

It’s no given for Goodchild, a man with a big fanbase. But he insists supporters will see his best performance to date.

“I’m in great shape, I’m ripped up and my knuckles are itching,” the 25-year-old told me. “There will be no excuses on May 4. People said I had potential, but I didn’t see my own potential.

“I’m a bit rough and ready round the edges, but who doesn’t like that?

“One hundred per cent, people will see a better fighter. I’m a lot more humble, I’ve taken the bigness out of my boots. I know who I am and what I’m capable of. If I need to cook it up in the kitchen, I’m cooking.”

Goodchild is a good fighter who insists he’s good enough to win a British title.

He is a self-confessed problem child who has overcome troubled months and the darkness of depression to resume his career. Connor praised Manning for rekindling his career.

“When I signed with Anthony Manning I got a fight date straight away,” he said. “He’s a very positive person to be around, he won’t let me be be down.”

May 4 will herald the new Connor Goodchild, he pledged.

“My mental health was all over the place,” he said. “I’m taking this fight as my debut. I’ve sparred with Liam Gould (soon to fight for the Midlands title) and it was great. He is where I want to be. I’ve sparred good lads.

“I have regrets – everyone has regrets, but I’m a man of God and believe everything happens for a reason.

“People can say I’m crazy, but every boxer’s crazy. Who else would willingly take punches to the head?”

What Connor Goodchild can achieve is a matter of debate – and you have to be something very special to win a Lonsdale Belt.

But one thing is for sure – one of Birmingham boxing’s most colourful characters is back.