Woolridge close to first title level test
Woolridge beats Connor Meanwell. Picture: Manjit Narotra
RYAN Woolridge is knocking on the championship door, writes PAUL WEBB.
after coming through his first eight-round contest in impressive style, the Bloxwich southpaw is hoping to make the most of the exposure of fighting on BoxNation on Saturday, March 8, on BCB Promotions “March Madness” bill.
The 24-year-old light-middle, unbeaten in 11, had an excellent 2024 with three wins on the spin that saw him gain his first knockout against Martin Shaw as well as go the distance with teak-tough Serge Ambomo. In November he was back at the home of his beloved Walsall FC, where he overcame a late illness to outpoint Connor Meanwell over eight, one-sided rounds.
"This year it's time to pull my finger out,” said Woolridge. “Pete (trainer Pete Hickenbottom) and I are always in the gym, early mornings out running, building and learning. I didn't have a break over Christmas.
“I came away disappointed with my last performance, but it had been a nightmare in the lead-up with me getting ill the Sunday before. I wasn't in the best place and it did impact me a bit. I boxed to orders and listened to what I was being told and Connor was a great opponent for me. Sometimes people look at the records of these guys, but they don't understand just how tough they are.
After experiencing boxing on a televised show in his second fight, the prospect of being on BoxNation alongside several Queensbury Promotions signed fighters has got the full-time electrician excited about the chance to be on a card stacked with talent.
"What a great platform to be on! When they (BoxNation) came back, they wanted to focus on small hall shows and support them, which they have done. It's a privilege to be on it. This fight for me feels like I have to step it up. Being on a show with so many good boxers, it's always good to be around top-level lads and see what they do up close, not just their fights but their preparation as well.”
Unbeaten duo Bradley Thompson (6-0) and Ben Fail (8-0) are both in action, along with the professional debut of Leamington Spa heavyweight Joe Bourne. Ollie Cooper (9-0), Brandon Bethell (4-1), James Griffiths (7-0), Mia Holland (1-0), Jack Finlan (1-0), and Jack Wyn Roberts complete the card.
Final tickets are available now priced £45 general admission and £80 VIP ringside from the boxers directly or by emailing info@bcb-promotions.com.