Troy bids to become new king of England
Troy Jones…Saturday night title shot. Pic: MSN Images/BCB Promotions
TROY Jones is looking to put the light-heavyweight division on notice when he faces Leon Willings for the English title on Saturday night, writes PAUL WEBB.
The big puncher’s big opportunity comes on BCB Promotions’ “For King and Country” show at Birmingham’s Eastside Rooms.
The 26-year-old from Tamworth has amassed an impressive 10-fight unbeaten record with six wins inside the distance. Determined to prove himself, Jones has skipped area title level to compete for domestic honours.
After a small delay from his original July date, the Lee Beard-trained talent is raring to get in the ring on August 17.
“The change of date didn’t affect me at all,” Troy said. “I was never out of the gym and this has been a longer camp with a lot more prep as I want to be fully ready for this opportunity.
“My coach looks a lot at my opponent, but I don’t worry too much about that. I know the best version of me, he won’t be able to keep up with both physically and mentally. I like his style and how he fights, but I have every confidence in myself and my coach."
Last time out, Jones made light work of Ghanaian Prince Oko Nartey, stopping him inside three rounds of their scheduled six after facing a couple of defensive-minded opponents. Saturday again gives Jones the chance to showcase his offensive talent.
He said: “In training we focus a lot on defence and a lot of opponents in my early fights just tucked up, so it was good to have someone in Nartey who threw back. When my shots landed I felt him weaken and forced the stoppage."
The elongated camp has seen Troy share rounds with former two-time world title challenger Anthony Yarde and the experience has solidified Jones belief that he sees his future at that level.
“I’m a big boxing fan, so I watch all the fights every weekend. To be in with the likes of Anthony and sparring the big names has been great, and my division is stacked with quality boxers.
“A lot of those guys are now over 30 and maybe coming towards the end of their careers or fighting at world level, so I’m coming in at a great time. Winning the English title will let me put imy stamp at light-heavyweight and I just want to thank Errol and BCB for showing faith in me. I will repay my team with a win on Saturday night."
*Remaining tickets for ‘For King and Country’ are available now priced at £40 standard and £80 VIP from the boxers directly or by emailing info@bcb-promotions.com.