New O’Tooles signing Aleksandr Trifonov’s march towards world glory will have an all-black & white look to it.
Punch-lines revealed yesterday how the owner of the Byker gym, Neil Conlon, had brought the highly-rated Ukraine cruiserweight to Newcastle, where he will be coached by the North-East’s first world champion, Glenn McCrory.
And completing a perfect Geordie alliance will be Alex’s manager, Steve Wraith.
The Tyneside boxing and entertainment figure will guide the fortunes of the 29-year-old and O’Toole’s owner, Neil Conlon, said Alex could not be in better hands as they chase a world title in just two and a half years.
“I’m delighted Steve will be Alex’s manager,” said Neil.
“I’ve known who Steve is for a long time but I met him last year when I agreed for O’Toole’s to sponsor a couple of his shows.
“He impressed me immediately with the way he conducted himself.
“Steve is very professional in his approach.
“His knowledge and experience has proved invaluable in getting Alex over here.
“With Steve on board it moved things along nicely.”
Wraith (pictured) has announced 2019 will be his final year as a promoter (he stages an event in Darlington on Saturday night) though he will continue to manage North-East fighters with the Ukraine international the latest to join a portfolio which includes the excellent Newcastle light-heavy Lawrence Osueke.
Tyneside boxing is looking as strong as it has ever been and Alex’s arrival will be good for the region, especially O’Tooles.
“It’s brilliant for O’Tooles,” added Neil. “Alex will be working here as well as training here.
“It’s good for us, of course, but great for the east end of Newcastle to have someone like him to watch and learn from.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Stu Armstrong
