Improving Tompkins faces Grannum test

Todd Tompkins…looking to make it four wins on Saturday night

FLEDGLING pro Todd Tompkins steps it up on Saturday with a four rounder against vastly experienced Jordan Grannum.

The Holiday Inn, Birmingham Airport, clash is a sensible test for Todd who is unbeaten in three – and it is not without risks.

Grannum is possibly the most experienced journeyman in the business. Forget the overwhelming number of losses in a 179 bout career – the Londoner has mixed it with the best and, when in the mood, poses a real danger.

I watched him briefly turn Liam O’Hare’s legs to spaghetti with a left lead. He dropped and outpointed prospect Tyler Rivers last year. Despite facing a string of champs, he’s only failed to hear the final bell on three occasions.

Todd, a southpaw middleweight from Rushden, Northamptonshire, said: “He’s done it, he’s boxed top level people. He’s going to bring the best out of me because I have to be on my best game.

“I have to be on top form to move with that calibre of opposition.”

To date, the 28-year-old who runs Titan community gym in his hometown has ticked all the boxes. He’s aggressive, busy and brave.

There is still plenty to learn, however.

“Four fights in just over a year, you have to be happy with that,” Todd added. “It’s down to Jon (manager Jon Pegg), but a Midlands title fight next year – that’s the goal after how much I’ve come on this year.

“And if it was in my neck of the woods, that would be a dream come true. I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep grafting the way I’ve been grafting.”

Grannum will tell us a little bit more about what Tompkins is made of.