Purewal: I was a fat kid, now I’m a fighter

THERE’S a lot to like about Jag Purewal, a self confessed former “fat kid” who found himself through boxing.

At Edgbaston’s H Suite on Saturday, the 22-year-old eased back after the first loss of his career with four round points victory over Worcester warrior Michael Mooney. He didn’t drop a session, romping home 40-36.

Mooney, a seasoned veteran of over 100 fights, lived up to his name, growling after the Selly Oak welter landed flush.

For Jag, it was a much needed confidence booster. He lost his “0” in his previous outing – a three round points loss in Tommy Owens’ “Top Boxer” tournament. He’s now won five against that solitary, fairly meaningless, setback.

Purewal has a flashy style and sharp reflexes, but looks more like a lightweight to this writer.

He told me: “The loss knocked my confidence a little. I was pleased with the performance, there were a couple of things I could have done a bit better.

“Because I didn’t want to lose for a second time, I was a bit nervous – I didn’t want to go through it again. Some people said I fought a bit cautiously in the first round and, being honest, that was the case. I wanted to get through the round and get the win.

“Now I’d like to move up to six rounders, I think six rounds will suit me better. My next fight is not due until May or June, but I’d like to be out as soon as possible.

“For me, personally, I’d say my best weight is lightweight or super-lightweight. That’s always been what I felt was the right path for titles.”

Purewal was an overweight child who has reached healthy proportions through boxing. That effort is to be applauded.

He added: “My weight has to be my biggest fear factor – even to this day. I keep on reminding myself of what I was.

“I do love my food, who doesn’t? Because boxing is a weight management sport, it has been a blessing.”