Clift vows: You’ll see a new Dylan in ring

Dylan Clift…takes part in his first six rounder next week

A NEW Dylan Clift will be unveiled next Saturday (May 31) at Birmingham’s Eastside Rooms, the fighter himself has pledged.

On manager Anthony Manning’s show, the Acocks Green super-lightweight takes part in his first six rounder. In the opposite corner will be vastly experienced journeyman Naheem Ali.

There will be a new style to match the new distance, 22-year-old Clift has announced.

He said: “I have always been a come-forward fighter and that will stay the same, but I’ll show what I can do when I let my hands go.

“I’ve not put on the pressure I’ve wanted to, now I want to show the other side – see what happens when I up the pressure. A new Dylan is coming out.”

Clift, who has won his first four pro bouts on points, vowed: “People are going to see there’s a new Dylan. Six rounds will show that perfectly. There have been a couple of fight when I’ve thought, ‘If only I’d had that extra round’.”

There have been a lot of changes in Dylan’s life since his last contest in March. He and partner Lilly are now parents to a 10-week-old daughter, Valerie.

“I have to take my hat off to my partner,” he said. “She has been the most amazing partner for a boxer and the most amazing mum. She has given me time to train.”

Clift has also immersed himself in a new community project. He and two friends have launched Solihull based SBS Running Club which provides weekly exercise for individuals from every walk of life.

“People buy tickets to see me,” he said, “I wanted to give back, so started a running club. Two months ago, when we started, there were seven people, now 35 people turn up. It’s given me a new lease, giving back provides a lot of satisfaction.

“And because I’m giving back, people are helping out with ticket sales. There’ll be a lot of new faces at next Saturday’s show.”

Clift, trained by dad Chris and Gary Turner, is steadily rise through the ranks and edging towards a title fight.

“Four fights in a year, touching on titles, first six rounder – I’m here, I’m happy with the way it’s going,” he said. “I’m hoping title opportunities come very soon. The people who are there for me over 10 rounds, I think I can beat them. I can see the title coming very soon, but I also want to make sure I get the rounds in before taking that step.

“If the opportunity comes and the time is right, I’m 100 per cent up for it.”

But first there is Blackburn’s Naheem Ali, a veteran of close to 150 bouts, to take care of. Ali has lost many, many more than he’s won, but is capable of the occasional upset. Local fans will recall his fourth round win over Leo Fanthome last year.

“He has stopped people I know,” Clift added, “so he must have something there in his locker. But there is nothing I should be afraid of, power wise.”