Adam Booth is excited to see Josh Kelly make the next part of his boxing journey by winning the Commonwealth title in Newcastle.
His unbeaten welterweight challenges Kris George for the Australian’s belt on Saturday, June 16, while defending the WBA International star he won last time out against Carlos Molina in what was only his sixth bout. It’s amazing but true.
If Booth lacks any commodity (given his record that premise is debatable) belief is not one of them, hence his confidence in sending the 24-year-old into these contests so early in his career.
The coach, former trainer to the likes of David Haye and George Groves and current guiding hand to Ryan Burnett, has no doubts he has a world champion in the making.
Victory against the 28-year-old Commonwealth champion is the next step on the trip.
“We’ll take these risks, calculated risks, because we believe in the fighter that we have,” said Booth, whose boxer co-headlines the Metro Radio Arena show with unbeaten British lightweight king, Lewis Ritson.
“The Commonwealth title is the next step in his career.
“When I talk about Josh I only talk about world championships but this is only part of the journey, a journey which will be entertaining and incredible for the North-East.”
Kelly has clocked up six straight wins since going pro, with only his first and last bouts going to the scorecards.
The Sunderland talent, dubbed ‘Pretty Boy’ by his promoter, Eddie Hearn, has everything going for him, talent, punching power and those good looks.
“As a coach I’ve been fortunate to work with some excellent fighters,” added Booth, who thinks we’ll see an even better Kelly the bigger test he faces.
“Josh is a special talent, he really is, not just in the ring, but out of it.
“He has that crossover appeal as a fighter.
“As a fighter there have been some interesting performances from him so far, it makes for a good highlight reels.
“People probably aren’t yet aware of the substance of him as a fighter and that will only come out when he he meets someone who provides the right challenge for him.”
Booth had a message for the promoter who he says must be prepared to make the 600-mile round trip from the Matchroom HQ in Essex on a more regular basis.
“I hope your Bentley is covered for all these miles up to Newcastle because you are going to be coming up here a few times,” said the 49-year-old Londoner.
“Lewis is doing incredibly well and I think he and Josh are going to set the place on fire for some time to come.
“Get a flat up here or get a car that’s more economical.”
Words: Roy Kelly Pictures: Lawrence Lustig/ Matchroom
