Manning: I don’t just put on a boxing bill, I put on a production
Manning with latest signing, cruiser Traie Duberry
ANTHONY Manning, Birmingham’s new promoter on the block and a man burning with ambition, stages the second pro show of his career on September 30.
Like his sell-out promotional baptism in June, the bill will be staged at the city’s Eastside Rooms and will follow the same glittering, near theatrical format.
Last time fans were treated to dancers in mirrored bodysuits, a saxophonist, rapper, fireworks…It was arena razzmatazz in a small hall setting.
“Fans now want these events with a bit more production,” Manning said. “Typically, today fans pay around £40 for a ticket, watch a fighter box and leave. Putting on a production, keeps them engaged, keeps them in the room.
“Last time it was a sell-out, I don’t think we could have done any more. I believe it was one of the best shows the Midlands has seen in a while.”
September 30 will feature the Manning fighters who made his last “Next Gen” show a success: Reagan Oliver, Hamzah Ahmed, Amir Abubaker and Malcolm Melvin trained heavy Simon Ibekwe.
There’s also be the debut of Manning’s latest signing, cruiser Traie Duberry, a product of Aston ABC. As an amateur heavyweight, Traie won a national title and the Haringey Box Cup.
Manning predicts a very bright future for the newest addition to his stable. “He’s been sparring Isaac Chamberlain and held his own,” he said.
“He’s a secret, that’s his ring name – very few people know his worth. I believe he has the talent to sign for a big promoter, but he wants to learn his craft at home on smaller shows.”
Surprisingly, unbeaten lightweight Mykey Lee Broughton has also been included on Manning’s show, which is just 21 days after he is scheduled to face Scott Melvin at Planet Ice, Solihull, for the vacant Midlands title.
That raised concern in some quarters.
Bill for the next instalment of Nxt Gen
Of Broughton’s big night against Melvin, Manning today stated: “Should be a good fight.” The bout appears to be definitely on.
Manning is a man with big plans. He wants, down the line, to stage arena shows.
“After the last show, I asked an official, ‘do you think I’m ready for a stadium?’ he added. “If you are doing something you love, the challenges are where you get your knowledge. I’m not saying I’ll just arrive at the place I want to be.
“You don’t just become a trainer, manager, promoter overnight. Yes, I’m confident, but I’m humble and it’s important people realise that. I know the work that has to be done.”