Out to make a statement.
Meet Joe Miller who is targeting his fourth consecutive win since turning professional when he fights Louis Smithson at the Rainton Arena on Saturday, November 30.
The 20-year-old is one of the exciting attractions on the undercard to two Northern Area title fights which Jobes Boxing are promoting at the Houghton venue.
Miller will fight the South-West Londoner over six rounds following shut-out points wins over Luke Fash, Jack England and Erick Lopez.
“I’ve boxed tough lads already in my three bouts,” the Seaham featherweight told punch-lines.
“Luke Fash had had over 100 fights and was as tough as old boots, I felt Jack England came to win, he was swinging for four rounds, then you could tell with Erick Lopez that the quality was there. He won 20 in a row before deciding to go on the road.
“It was good to get six rounds in against someone who was strong experienced and tough.
“I’ve got some experience now so would like to think I can make a statement and get my stoppage.”
Miller enjoyed a good career as a junior and amateur before moving into the paid ranks, starting very impressively.
He warned opponents too not to judge a book by its cover, where he is concerned.
“People might see that I’m tall and skinny and that I’m weak and they can get to me in the later rounds,” he said. “But the opposite is the case.
“I get stronger as the rounds go on, I’m an endurance athlete.
“Here, I’m confident that I can go through the gears and get him out of there. That’s the aim.”
Miller is one of a clutch of Boxing talent residing in SR postcodes.
Fellow Seaham resident Adam Hepple has only just challenged for the Commonwealth Silver light-heavyweight title, while up the road in Sunderland the Tenacity gym featuring Adam Reichard, Beau Smith and Travis Waters boast a combined tally of 18-0, while Eduard Georgiev is at 2-0.
Throw in Washington’s Essex-based McCormack twins, Pat and Luke, who are a total 8-0 and World rated Josh Kelly, from Ryhope, and all is groovy on Wearside.
Miller is a huge fan of Waters and would love to be part of a show involving the southpaw.
“Josh Kelly is top of the pile but Trav is going well, and he’ll be looking to kick on next year,” said Miller.
“Rainton Meadows is a really good venue for boxers from Sunderland, Newcastle and Durham.
“It was great we had that show at the Beacon of Light at the end of last year. It would be nice to have another one there with Trav headlining. Everyone loves him because he’s a proper Sunderland lad.
“There are loads of good Sunderland boys and North-East boxing is booming at the moment.
“These are exciting times.”
Miller was giving the lowdown on his boxing life at the media day hosted by promoters Jobes Boxing at the incredible Everlast gym at the Metro Centre.
“I’ve been before, it’s a brilliant facility,” said the ex-Olympian ABC and East Durham ABC talent.
“It’s great to get some media exposure and just being part of what’s happening in North-East boxing, it’s progressing.all the time. I feel quite lucky to have turned pro when I did.
“I’m looking to kick on and be a big name in North-East boxing myself.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jason Corbett/ Mindenwood Photography
