From the Buffs Social Club to the AO Arena Manchester. What a story for Will Howe who is ready to write a new chapter.
The ‘Boro Balboa’ is to make his professional debut on Saturday as the the opening bout of BOXXER’s show which stars his team-mate Savannah Marshall.
Howe tackles Blackpool’s Jake Darnell, who was the opponent the night Frazer Clarke made his start as a pro 16 months ago.
It has been some journey for the Middlesbrough heavyweight, who vows to take it all in his stride.
“I had my first fight at the Buffs Social Club in Middlesbrough, now here I am on the biggest stage with Sky and BOXXER,” he said.
“It’s massive,” he said. “But I can’t let it get to me. I’m just taking it all in my stride.
“I’m not going to overdo anything, I’m just going to enjoy it all.”
While Howe’s career might have been in down-to-earth surroundings, don’t think it’s been a tortuous journey.
He has learned the ropes with Phil Thomas School of Boxing and Natural Progression Boxing Academy, while he has represented his country with distinction abroad at a couple of European Youth Championships.
But now it’s all about taking the plunge at the professional level after sparring stints with Hughie Fury turned into the chance to stay at the Fury gym on a permanent basis under the tutelage of Hughie’s dad, Peter.
“I listen to every word he says and take it on board,” said the 21-year-old, pictured left with opponent Darnell next to him after Friday’s weigh-in.
“If I was stood on the edge of a cliff and he said jump off it and you’ll fly, I’d probably believe him and jump.
“He tells it how it is. If you’re doing all right he tells you, if you’re doing badly you know about it.
“I’m loving being under him, it’s great experience and he’s a great figure to have to look up to.
“I know he wants the best for his fighters.”
Peter will be in the corner at the Manchester Arena for the first four rounds of Will’s pro career, where he will be up against Darnell.
“He’s tough and durable opponent,” Howe told BBC Tees Sport. “I treat every opponent the same, whether I’m on a club show or boxing at the Europeans for England, I treat it like a world title fight.
“I don’t underestimate anyone.
“I’m just keeping focused and looking forward to boxing and putting on a show.”
Fury is delighted with the progress the young heavyweight prospect is making.
“He’s a good fighter, he’s improving,” said the legendary coach. “I’m taking the aggression out of him, he’s too aggressive, I’m getting him moving, slipping and sliding, getting that relaxedness.
“I don’t want him going out trying to bomb the lad out, I want him to box and pick up the pro style.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Lawrence Lustig / BOXXER
