Evans to move down to the welter division
Zach Evans and Mitch Pearce. Pic: Manjit Narotra/BCB Promotions
CANNOCK prospect Zach Evans is looking to shed half-a-stone and bid for titles at welterweight.
He’ll begin his descent from light-middle on promoter Scott Murray’s public show at the Premier Suite on Sunday, May 25. An opponent has yet to be named, but expect Zach to headline in his hometown.
The decision to move to welter is something of a surprise. Under trainer Mitch Pearce, he notched-up nine straight wins at 11 stone and was closing in on a Midlands or Celtic title shot. What’s more, he looked mighty impressive.
He boxed at Murray’s exclusive Excelsior Club only week ago and seemed a little below par in clearly outpointing Estonian southpaw Andrei Antonov over four rounds.
Trainer Pearce said: “As an amateur, Zach boxed as a welterweight and as a pro he’s been 68kg (10st 10lbs). We think he’s a ‘day before weigh-in’ welter.
“Zach has always wanted to win the Celic belt, but it depends what opportunities come up at the time. Midlands or Celtic – once you’ve got those titles you can push on. He’s 9-0 now, so the opportunities will be coming soon.
“I think the longer distances will suit Zach more. He has an engine and has done nine and 10 rounds sparring very well. He was a successful amateur because of his volume and engine.
“It’s taken him a while to settle down as a pro because he was such a high-volume amateur.”
Pearce added: “The power is coming – it’s not 100 per cent there yet, but it’s coming. His body-punching – that’s his baby.”
The May 25 show is shaping up very nicely.
Birmingham welter Oscar “De La Lawyer” McCracken will look for his fourth win on the spin. The 25-year-old, part of the famous McCracken boxing family, is the only lawyer boxing professionally.
Jack Finlan, from Burntwood, bounces back after suffering defeat last month in his second professional outing.
And battle-scarred Stoke warrior Jamie Stewart is certain to provide fireworks after already serving-up two thrillers on Scott Murray shows.
At the March Excelsior evening, he and free-swinging Frenchman Dassa Namana belted out a “fight of the night” draw.