Steve Wraith’s interest in the Summer Rumble has intensified further after agreeing a deal to become manager of Lawrence Osueke.
The Newcastle promoter had already come on board with Phil Jeffries to stage the annual Sunday afternoon spectacular at Sunderland’s football ground.
And now he will have even closer interest with Osueke having his fourth pro fight, at the Stadium of Light.
The 30-year-old has looked mighty impressive in his run of three wins in three months, all against Eastern European/ Baltic opposition.
It all began with a four-rounder against Jindrich Velecky in Preston, followed by a one-sided schooling of Jevgenijs Andrejevs in South Shields before dominating Remigijus Ziausys at the Metro Radio Arena.
Osueke has got to be one of the brightest ‘young’ talents in British professional boxing.
Before anyone gets ageist and says ‘but Lawrence is 30’, the classy Newcastle boxer is still relatively fresh.
The Geordie made a late entrance into boxing but established himself as a quality performer under the tutelage of Rye Hill ABC coach Manny Burgo, who happens to be his uncle. Manny was some fighter in his day, establishing himself as a top 10 British heavyweight and fighting out of the esteemed Gus Robinson Champs gym in Hartlepool.
Osueke clinched ABA glory in the amateurs as well as representing Team GB in major events, and he has quickly transferred that skill into the pro arena.
He will be one of the me to watch at Summer Rumble 8.
Osueke is part of a magnificent seven bout card which features two Geordie debutants.
Thrilling amateur Joe Laws, a crowd favourite with Birtley ABC, has signed for Jeffries, as has fellow Newcastle lad, Terry Wilkinson, who comes out of Davy Ritson’s Forest Hall gym.
The Peterlee-trained Hill brothers, Joe and Tom, will be seeking more success for Redcar whileTerry Tyers, from Trimdon, will be aiming for his third pro success.
Trimdon’s Darren Surtees will be the old stager on the event, even though he is still only 23! The Thornley boxer will be having his eighth pro fight.
Words: Roy Kelly
