Baggie Boy is ready to box for area belt

James Griffiths…nice guy, nice left hook. Picture: Manjit Narotra/BCB

GOOD to see James Griffiths – one of the nicest individuals on the circuit – back and firing on all cylinders after overcoming a career threatening injury.

Following seven months away after severing a thumb in an horrific work accident, the self-styled “Baggie Boy” eased back with comprehensive victory over Manchester’s Josh Cook on Friday night.

Middleweight Griffiths, from Wombourne, bossed the action from first bell to last at WV Active Aldersley for referee Ryan Churchill’s 40-36 four round decision.

Admittedly, Cook, with one win in 58 outings, didn’t pose too much of a threat, but Griffiths (11st 9lbs) handled him impressively.

There’s a lot to like about Griffiths who’s aggressive and possesses a fine left hook. The body work is also good.

He touched with the left jab in the first against an opponent with gloves cupped round his face, then slammed straight rights to the body.

Griffiths used the hook more as he warmed into the fight. Cook (11st 9lbs) copped a left hook to body and head in the third and by the last the home favourite was really letting both hands go.

James is exciting and has ability, but at the age of 30 time is not on his side.

Now unbeaten in nine, he needs to take that step up to title level. Having already been nominated to fight for the Midlands belt by the Board of Control, I expect him to get that opportunity very soon in the new year.