If the Metro Centre is any indicator, expect the Metro Radio Arena to be full to the rafters on Saturday night.
The stars of the Matchroom-promoted show starring Josh Kelly and Lewis Ritson took part in a public work-out tonight in Exhibition Square in the shopping and leisure complex.
Sunderland star Kelly and Newcastle hero Ritson and their opponents, Kris George and Paul Hyland Jnr, all did stints in the ring as did Charlie Edwards, Glenn Foot and Stuart Hall.
Punch-lines understands over 7,000 tickets have been snapped up by a boxing hungry public with everything pointing to the event getting close to a sell-out in the next 48 hours.
Kelly says he feels more anticipation and excitement than nerves that a huge audience is there to watch him and Ritson in big title showdowns.
“It’s going to be massive and I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday night,” said Kelly, who defends his WBA International welterweight title, while trying to take the Commonwealth belt from George.
“Everyone feels pressure when they go in the ring, it doesn’t matter where you are fighting.
“It’s a buzz knowing so many people are here to support us, it feels like they are on same the journey as us.
“We just can’t wait to get out and perform for them.”
Kelly said he was knocked out by the crowds at the Metro Centre, with all the boxers present taking time to chat with fans and take the obligatory selfies.
“It’s madness,” said the boxer know as ‘Pretty Boy. “Us boxers are ordinary working class people just like them, it’s just our work is in a ring.
“For them to come here after work to support us here is incredible.
“To see so many people here makes fighting in front of our own fans on Saturday even more exciting.”
Kelly has begun his career in a real rush, winning all six pro fights, four inside the distance, with coach Adam Booth and promoter Eddie Hearn having the confidence to send the 24-year-old out to challenge for a major title in only his seventh contest.
George, meanwhile, is making the second defence of the title he won back in November 2016.
The Australian’s record is an impressive 14-1, with eight of his victories coming early.
“He’s a decent boxer,” added Kelly. “He’s the champion, but I’m confident, very confident.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Lawrence Lustig/ Matchroom
