Conor aims to make up for lost ring time
Conor Baker…coming off a debut win last month
AFTER a lengthy absence from the sport, Conor Baker will be fighting for the second time in less than two months when he steps through the ropes at the Bescot Stadium on Friday, December 1.
The Tipton 26-year-old made his professional debut at the Holiday Inn, Birmingham, last month and went the distance with Stu Greener, taking a 40-37 points win.
He trains at the Anchor Gym with Mark Richards, a former boxer himself who had over 100 amateur bouts and represented England before joining the paid ranks.
“I loved being back in there after five years out” said Baker. “I thought I would have a lot of ring rust, but I felt great. I thought my work rate and my movement were both good. It felt different to boxing as an amateur as I found that can be quite scrappy and messy at times. My style definitely feels more suited to the pro game.”
Greener is a durable fighter who has gone the distance with the likes of Dylan Cheema and Macauley Owen. Despite not dropping a round, Baker felt like he has plenty to work on ahead of his next bout.
He said: “I’m looking to work with power more as I know I already have the ability to box and get out of trouble with my footwork and head movement. I know how well I can box and the knockouts will come off the back of working on heavier shots.”
There was some uncertainty over whether Baker would box again this year due to a pre booked holiday at the end of November. Such is his desire to stay active he is going to balance both.
“After coming off a win, I wanted to keep busy and it felt right to take the fight. The only reason I was not going to box again this year is because I have a holiday the week before. But after speaking to my coach we agreed I would continue to train on holiday as my fitness is not a problem and I am already at the weight.
“My plan for 2024 is to continue to fight throughout the year, to stay active and to get as many wins as I can. I want to work towards title fights throughout my career and will only be able to do this by pushing myself and staying active.”