Another chance to show a major audience just what Tommy Ward can do.
That is the motivation of the World Boxing Organisation’s number four rated super-bantamweight ahead of his international eight-round match in Brentwood on Saturday night.
Ward takes on Spain-based Nicaraguan Brayan Mairena on a lively-looking MTK card at the Brentwood Centre, a nice (and free) alternative to the Sky Sports Box Office fare.
Ward is special as many, many more people are beginning to discover.
His scintillating performance against Jesse Angel Hernandez in Kansas, televised by Showtime in North America and BoxNation here, was his best yet.
So did that night cement his self-belief that he belongs on the big stage?
“I’ve always had the belief that I have the ability to fight and beat the best and win world titles,” the Dave Garside/ Neil Fannan talent told punch-lines.
“But it showed everyone out there what Tommy Ward can do, that I can go across to America and do that.
“It was a glimpse to people what I can do but I know there is plenty more to come and I do believe the better, the stronger the opponent then you will see an even better Tommy Ward.”
This is not arrogance from the 25-year-old, just a supreme confidence that he is ready for the big one, which will hopefully come sooner rather than later.
“I loved the fight against Jesse but I’m looking forward to the next big one and hopefully that’s for the world title,” added the Co Durham star who is sponsored by NE Security.
“I want to fight the best there is, I want to fight them all, I want great nights.”
Saturday night is not one of those nights but it’s one he is keen to shine on and a welcome return to work after five months without a bout.
“I’m looking forward to his eight rounder,” said Ward, who has not watched Mairena, a rugged customer with a 10-12-1 log.
“I don’t tend to look at my opponents, I leave all that to Neil, who will go through all the strengths and weaknesses with me.
“I’m told he’s a good, tough, strong opponent and that it will get me some rounds under my belt.
“I’ve not fought since February so it’s been a long time coming, I’ve been training flat out so I’m looking forward to it.
“There are no easy fights in the boxing ring, especially at this level, when you are just a fight away from a world title shot.
“I’m happy to be boxing, I want to fight, I love to fight, and while it’s not a world title fight it’s one I’m looking forward to. If I’m busy, if I’m fighting I’m happy.”
There are two crackers at the top of the MTK bill as Mack the Knife’s Michael McKinson takes on KO-expert Evgeny Pavko for the WBO European welterweight title while England’s Chantelle Cameron faces big-hiiting Anisha Basheel for the WBC Silver lightweight title.
The action is being televised on IFL TV’s YouTube channel.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins/ Hartlepool Life
