Tommy Ward has already ruled Great Britain and now it is time to conquer the world.
The Hartlepool boxer has relinquished his British title to concentrate on the path to International Boxing Federation glory.
Ward will box Romanian-born Spain-based Ionut Baluta Houghton on Friday, July 27, for the IBF European super-bantamweight title.
It is part of a Ward championship double bill at the Rainton Meadows Arena, where elder brother, Martin, will box James ‘Jazza’ Dickens for the British 8st 10lb belt Tommy has vacated.
Tommy is, potentially, two victories away from an IBF world shot, providing he beats Baluta AND a subsequent eliminator.
It is a shrewd move from manager, Dave Garside, coach Neil Fannan, and promoter Phil Jeffries.
Frank Warren had initially won the purse bids to promote Tommy Ward’s British title defence against Dickens only to withdraw, citing no TV backing.
Rather than promote Tommy against Jazza and go over an old path, Team Ward have instead invested in a world journey.
It is music to Tommy’s ears.
“We are taking a route towards the IBF world title,” the undefeated 24-year-old told punch-lines.
“It’s always been my ambition to be world champion and to do that I’ve got to keep on winning.
“I know I am only 24 but I believe I can do it and if I do I am confident I can hold on to it for many years.”
The NE Security-sponsored star has talent and belief in equal measure and the b-word, you suspect, will be vital in the coming weeks, months and years.
“I do have belief in myself,” said the West Rainton man pictured above with coach Neil Fannan, Martin and Mark Lloyd, manager of North East Security.
“I am beating everyone put in front of me and beating them nicely.
“I am proving myself each fight and I’ve got to keep on going.
“I know if I beat my next couple of opponents I will get a shot at the title.”
The Dennis Hobson Promotions show, staged in association with Dave Garside and Phil Jeffries, will have another10 bouts.
While the two Wards spearhead the entertainment, there are some cracking boxers on the undercard (in alphabetical order) Dave Allen, Chad Ellis, Jordan Ellison, Gary Fox, Anth Hardy, Tom Hill, Joe Laws, Kyle Redfearn, Mohammed Waqas, and Terence Wilkinson.
Words: Roy Kelly
