You would say he is probably star quality already but Tommy Ward “truly believes” he is destined to be a world star.
And he is excited to be getting star billing when Newcastle stages a major night of boxing next month.
His promoters, MTK, as promised, are returning to the North-East on September 28 following the success of their maiden event at the Newcastle Eagles Community Arena in May.
World-number-four ranked Ward is relishing boxing there and having a home date after starting the year with a stunning victory over Jesse Hernandez in a WBO world title eliminator in Kansas and then winning on his MTK debut in Brentwood last month against Brayan Mairena over eight rounds.
In between he was given a ringing endorsement by world heavyweight title contender Tyson Fury.
Coach Neil Fannan was full of praise for MTK when he spoke to punch-lines.
“MTK are like a breath of fresh air,” said Fannan.
“They asked us what we wanted to do – the September 28 show or the Matchroom show on October 19. They wondered if we wanted some exposure for Tommy on Sky.
“But we said Tommy would prefer their own show and being top of the bill.
“They listened to us and delivered and we are over the moon to be headlining in the North-East. We have no opponent yet, but I’m expecting it to be a decent test.
“It’s a great opportunity for Tommy to get out there and make his name bigger.
”Tommy lives for boxing. This is his life.
“He’s unbelievably talented, unbelievably fit and I’ve just been working with him in the gym and he’s red-hot.
“He truly believes he is going to be a real star and he loves the exposure he is starting to get and he’ll thrive on the big stage.”
Ward, not long turned 25, is one of Britain’s highest world-rated boxers, standing at four with the World Boxing Organisation.
Under the coaching of Fannan and Dave Garside’s management, the NE Security-sponsored star has won every one of his 27 contests.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins/ Hartlepool Life
