Warren pledges ‘old school’ excitement
Warren celebrates Midlands title success. Picture: Michael Ault
COVENTRY has a new pro following welterweight Warren Leybourne’s move to BCB Promotions’ fast expanding stable.
The 26-year-old - the third fighter to turn over with BCB in the space of a week – will make his debut at the Hangar, Wolverhampton, on September 19.
“Turning pro was something I wanted to do from the beginning,” Warren, from Coventry’s Willenhall suburb, said. “If Covid hadn’t happened, I’d probably have been a pro at 24.”
“I’ve seen the ability of some of the pro guys and the praise they get and thought, ‘I want some of that’.”
As an amateur with the city’s BXR club, Warren had 17 bouts, was crowned Midlands developments champ and lost on a split decision in the national final. He also won three of four white collar bouts.
As a pro, he’ll be coached by Kyle Wish at the Red Corner gym where he works as a trainer.
“My engine is my real strength, my toughness as well,” said Warren. “With boxing, it’s not only a tough man’s sport, it’s a thinking man’s sport, too. I don’t go in there like a headless chicken. I believe I can become a test for anyone.
“In the white collar, I was developing a pro style because it’s slower (than the amateurs). It allowed you to show power and select punches.
“The power’s there and my power is still developing, I haven’t reached my max.”
When Warren began his boxing journey he had to fit training around night shift work for a parcel delivery company. That was gruelling.
He’s now fitting the fight game’s demands around his role as a new dad: his son is just six months old. “It’s hard, but it used to be a lot harder,” he said.
Warren admits there’ll be more than a few butterflies on his debut. “I used to be really bad with nerves,” he admitted. “But through experience I’ve learned to control the nerves and I always fight better when I have them.
“Fans can expect a few things in there. They can expect to see fast-paced action. I want to bring the old school style when it’s rough and ready.
“I had a bit of a following in the white collar and when I went amateur. I’m confident I’ll sell quite a few tickets.”
Warren has high hopes for the future.
He added: “Like everyone, my mind’s set on a British title. If I can achieve that, then I’ll think about other things.”
At present only one thing is on the newcomer’s mind – September 19.