Sam lights fire under new career as fighter
Sam Evitts works Arrowsmith’s body. Picture: Manjit Narotra/BCB
Sam Evitts, the man who demolishes chimneys by day, has lit a fire under a second career – professional boxing.
The welter made his debut on BCB’s Aldersley Stadium, Wolverhampton, show last weekend. It wasn’t a four rounder that saw sparks fly, but Sam dominated against vastly experienced journeyman Dale Arrowsmith, taking every round for a 40-36 decision.
Arrowsmith, from Hyde, Lancashire, has gathered every survival trick in the book during a 170 bout career. The 32-year-old is a master of his craft.
“It went well, it was good to get back because I hadn’t boxed since September when I was an amateur,” Cradley Heath’s Evitts said. “It would’ve been nice if he got a bit more involved, but I was happy with what I did my side.
“When he did throw with me, I was throwing back straight away. There were nerves beforehand, but when the gloves were on, I just wanted to get out there.”
Evitts, at 29, has “turned over” late after a fairly limited amateur career. He had 15 bouts, starting with Stoubridge’s Pumpkin gym, then switching to BCB.
“I’ve only been boxing five years,” he said. “I went to watch a mate fight and thought, ‘I’ll have a bit of that’. I didn’t think I’d be a professional fighter, although I never really had an amateur style. With my age, I thought it was time to do it if I was going to get something out of it.
“I think being older has helped me. I’m more sensible, I’ve got a 17-month-old daughter at home and that gives me a lot more of a kick up the backside.”
Evitts is juggling the demanding sport alongside the commitment needed to build his own business. “I fit log burners,” he said. “It’s hard work – knocking down chimney. It’s tough, but even as a kid I was a tough little lad.”
That toughness and determination will prove key assets in the ring, Evitts insists. “I like to have a go, I’m a counter-puncher,” he said. “I think I’m an exciting fighter and will give people value for money.
“I leave it all in the ring. I’d like to think I can have a go with anybody. I’m just a tough lad, I’m not going to roll over. Unless you put me on my back, I’m going to be there to the end. After a few years, I’d like to think I can be up there.”
Sam also has a healthy fanbase. “I did 96-97 tickets for my debut,” he added. “I didn’t think I’d do that because I’ve never had to do it before.”
If the newcomer is searching for a ring name, one, based on his business, immediately springs to mind. How about Smokin’ Sam Evitts?