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02/11/2008
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Leading local amateur boxing prospect Mick Hadfield completed the Headland ABC show in perfect fashion.
The recently-crowned Tyne, Tees and Wear champion did not have a challenger on the bill at the Borough Hall last Thursday.
He ended up conceding weight to Sean McBride though he certainly conceded nothing else to his Redcar opponent.
Mick, an apprentice electrician with Gus Robinson Developments, started strongly and never once released his grip on this fight.
The 19-year-old drove body punch after body punch into his fellow teenager who showed great fortitude, as well as a very tight guard, to get all the way through the contest.
Hadfield led 4-2, 11-4 and 15-8 after the opening three rounds to set up a certain points victory, but instead of cruising home he really put his foot on the accelerator pedal.
In the last round, the Headland ABC star got through again to the body but also to the head and lesser men than McBride would have folded.
But the contest went the whole way, Hadfield winning convincingly 24-9.
Following his defeat in a match against the Army, this win put the Young England star back on track and he is looking forward to making a push for success in the 2009 ABA Championship.
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02/11/2008
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Gus Robinson Developments ABC had a night to remember at the Headland ABC's annual autumn boxing extravaganza.
The amateur side, who fight out of the state-of-the-art Stranton House gym, won all five of their contests at the Borough Hall.
Highlight of the night came when teenage prospect Peter Cope clinched the inaugural Tyne, Tees and Wear bantamweight championship.
Cope, who previously had won a national novice title, defeated Luke O'Rourke over amateur boxing's new championship distance of 3x3 minute rounds.
It was a majestic boxing performance from the 17-year-old who started brilliantly and never let the game 19-year-old from Consett back into the bout.
Peter swept into a 10-4 lead, scoring neatly with both gloves, and he also won round two to move further in front at 17-9 with only three minutes to go.
Chants of "Copey, Copey, Copey" rang around the Borough Hall at the start of the final round and while O'Rourke, formerly a boxer at the East Durham Community College's Boxing Academy, showed plenty of aggression, the Gus Robinson Developments ABC ace kept his boxing together.
O'Rourke took the last round 9-8 but Cope was a handsome 25-18 winner at the end of a high-class bout between two talented teenagers.
Peter's win was the icing on the cakre for the West View Road club.
Four team-mates also clinched glory to make it a clean sweep for coaches Tony Martin and Wayne Short.
Peter's older brother, Danny, 18, enjoyed a dream debut when he beat East Durham Academy's Richard Carr, who was making only his second appearance. Danny, showing quick hands, won 12-3.
Steve Smith was next in the ring and after beating Kallum Leather in Middlesbrough earlier this year, he saw off brother Josh Leather of Brambles Farm 16-5.
The equally-slick Paul Archer also had Middlesbrough opposition but he came through a testing assignment against Garry Kemp of the Phil Thomas School of Boxing with a 13-9 victory.
Next in was Gus Robinson Developments ABC's eldest statesman, Jeff Hull. The 24-year-old hit back from losing the first round to defeat Dale Jordan of the Phil Thomas School of Boxing 11-9 in what was a cracking three-rounder.
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01/11/2008
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Talented Geard Ajetovic suffered one of the most frustrating nights of his career when he lost his third fight in a row.
Ajetovic looked capable of stopping Matthew Macklin in Birmingham on Friday night only to end up losing on points after 10 intriguing rounds of middleweight action.
Referee Shaun Messer scored the contest 97-94 in favour of the 26-year-old Brummie, much to the disappointment of Ajetovic who had offered the Dudley his glove at the final bell.
"It was more frustrating than when I lost the world title fight in Australia (to Daniel Geale)," said the Gus Robinson-managed boxer.
“I hurt Macklin and he kept grabbing me.
"I felt I had him – one or two times I thought he was gone but he just held onto me.”
Ajetovic hurt Macklin on more than one occassion, particularly in the latter rounds.
True, Matthew did hold on after being hurt by the powerful rights which landed from Ajetovic - but you would expect him to use his experience in those situations to keep himself in the bout.
The major problem was Geard was not positive enough and too many times instead of pushing on with aggression he stood off his opponent.
Ajetovic's shots when they landed drew gasps from the audience at Aston Villa Events Centre, but there was not enough of them and Macklin held on for his victory.
Following the shocking points defeat by stablemate Nigel Wright in Prizefighter seven days earlier, Mr Messer's scoring did provide a bit of a talking point.
The Hartlepool Mail's reporter scored it 97-93 to Macklin but the two Boxing News writers at ringside, Danny Flexen and Andy Whittle, had Ajetovic losing by only one point.
Boss Robinson believed Geard produced "a satisfactory performance" and will be looking to find another fight of a similar profile for his gifted Serbian middleweight.
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28/10/2008
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Gus Robinson remains a fan of the Prizefighter series.
The Robinson camp were left bitterly disappointed by the manner of Nigel Wright’s semi-final exit at the welterweight tournament on Friday night.
“The event was fantastic and it’s something boxing has needed,” said the Costa Blanca Homes boss.
“The camaraderie among the contestants and their people was exceptional.
“The atmosphere in York Hall was great, but the conditions in the ring were quite arduous because of the heat generated by the TV lights.
“The M/C [John McDonald] said it was some of the hottest conditions he’d worked under and he wasn’t fighting for three rounds and getting punched!”
Gus explained that he had discussed Wright’s defeat with the creator and promoter of Prizefighter Barry Hearn, who is the boss of the Matchroom organisation.
And the Stranton House gym chief hopes Nigel will gain future opportunities with Matchroom.
“I spoke to Barry Hearn and John Wischhusen [the director of boxing],” said Gus.
“Because it was such an exciting event, I didn’t want to spoil their party and thanked them for the opportunity.
“But I did need to mention my disappointment at what happened to Nigel.
“It was not just the defeat – there was a lot of money at stake.
“We do not begrudge Michael Lomax or anything like that, he deserved his win in the final.
“I’d just like to think that Nigel might be owed something, perhaps an opportunity to earn some money.”
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27/10/2008
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Gus Robinson will make a formal complaint to the British Boxing of Control at the judging of Nigel Wright’s controversial Prizefighter exit.
The manager was “very, very disappointed” after Wright was beaten on a split decision by Londoner Michael Lomax in their semi-final at the York Hall.
It was not a great contest or a vintage Wright display but his punching was cleaner and more accurate as was borne out by the Sky Sports post-bout stats.
The first couple of rounds were quite scrappy but the third was all-Wright which made judge Mark Green’s score of 30-27 to Lomax all the more remarkable.
Ian John Lewis gave it to the east end fighter 29-28 with John Keane of Wellingborough marking it 29-28 to Wright.
“It was not a great spectacle, but you have to remember these boxers were both southpaws,” said Gus.
“Nigel won the first round, not by a great margin, and it was probably the same for Lomax in the second.
“But Nigel won the third well.
“All the cleaner punches were from Nigel and every round he landed the more telling shots and that was not the case with Lomax.”
Gus will be writing to the BBBC to complain.
“The TV stats appeared to prove that Nigel had won by a decent margin,” said Robinson.
“Jim Watt, a former world champion, who watches hundreds and hundreds of fights and is a very good commentator, judged Nigel the winner.
“We were very, very disappointed.
“I know it is said people see fights differently, but the judge giving Lomax all three rounds was inexcusable.”
Earlier Wright had scored an impressive 19th victory of his pro career when he outpointed Ross Minter (Crawley) in the fourth quarter-final.
Judges Lewis, Keane and Victor Loughlin all scored it 29-28, which looked an accurate verdict.
The Robinson camp are busy again this coming Friday when middleweight Geard Ajetovic faces a testing 10-rounder in Birmingham against Brummie fighter Matthew Macklin.
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22/10/2008
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Nigel Wright has a famous name in the opposite corner in the Prizefighter championship.
Wright has been drawn against Ross Minter, the son of former undisputed world middleweight champion Alan, at the York Hall.
The pair were the last two names pulled out of the hat at the draw performed by former world welterweight champion John H Stracey and young boxer of the year Paul Appleby ahead of the British Boxing Writers Association annual awards at the Dorchester Hotel in London.
If successful in his quarter-final, Wright would beet the winner of Michael Lomax v Craig Dickson in the semis.
In the top half of the draw, favourite Ted Bami will start the evening against fellow Londoner George Hillyard before Hartlepool-born Steve Conway meets Mark Lloyd pof Telford.
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22/10/2008
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Nigel Wright has no fears about stepping up a weight division in the Prizefighter championship.
Wright, a top-notch operator at light-welterweight, has moved up to join some of Britain’s leading welters at the York Hall in London’s eastend on Friday.
It means he will be one of the outsiders to win the £25,000 top prize but coach Peter Cope insists he has made the right decision to take a place in the eight-man field.
Cope said: “It’s an opportunity for him, no doubt about it. v
“He was in training because he was hoping to get a re-match with [Ajose] Olusegun or a shot at his old English title and then this chance came along.
“What else would Nigel be doing on Friday night? There’s no point him sitting at home.
“He’s 29-years-old and he’s at the stage of his career when he needs to be fighting.
“As I’ve said before, Nigel’s never ducked anyone although a few lads have given him a miss.
“He proper fancies the job and Alan [Temple] really believes this tournament is going to be Nigel’s.
“This is a tremendous chance but also a chance with not much risk.
“It is not going to affect his rating at light-welterweight if it doesn’t go well.
“But if Nigel goes on to win this what a stage to showcase his talent."
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17/10/2008
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Gus Robinson's exciting week has continued with news that Geard Ajetovic has been signed up for a top boxing bill.
The middleweight star will fight top-rated British fighter Matthew Macklin in Birmingham over 10 rounds on Friday, October 31.
It follows on from Nigel Wright being brought into the next Prizefighter competition and the boxing boss this week signing three new fighters.
It is the third big bout in row for Geard in his opponent's backyard - Mack the Knife as he is known is a Brummie with an impressive record of only two losses.
Ajetovic has lost in his two last contests, a challenge for undefeated Australian boxer Daniel Geale's IBO world title in New South Wales in June and a 10-round points loss in Russia to Dimitry Pirog in July.
Gus had no hesitation in agreeing to the match proposed by Frank Warren's Sports Network at the Aston Villa Events Centre.
"A fight with Matthew Macklin has been something I've been talking about with (matchmaker) Dean Powell, for some time," said Robinson.
"Geard has been aware for around two months that it was a contest we were hoping to get and it has now come with only a fortnight's notice.
"But we wanted a significant British name to fight and that's what we've got.
"Macklin has only been knocked out once and has fought for the British title before.
"We know he's good and he's a boxer who starts fast and throws a lot of punches.
"He is someone who could well win on points if Geard hasn't learned from his experience in Australia and the previous criticisms of his style.
"But if Geard is in reasonable condition and goes to work then he could stop Macklin in five."
Geard will begin his training at Gus's Stranton House gym on Monday when he will be working alongside Nigel Wright.
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15/10/2008
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Nigel Wright has been given the chance to become the next Prizefighter champion.
The Gus Robinson star was invited to join the exciting eight-man competition in London on Friday, March 24 after Irish fighter Neil Sinclair pulled out.
Wright had been training in the hope of securing a Commonwealth light-welterweight championship re-match with Ajose Olusegun.
But when promoters Matchroom (Barry Hearn's company) came knocking on the door, the 29-year-old had no hesitation in accepting the invitation.
Wright will be competing against Ted Bami (London), Steve Conway (Dewsbury), Craig Dickson (Glasgow), George Hillyard (London), Mark Lloyd (Telford), Michael Lomax (London) and Ross Minter (Crawley) at the York Hall in Bethnal Green.
"They [Matchroom] came to us rather tongue in cheek," said Gus.
"They know Nigel is a very good light-welterweight who has ambitions to be the British champion.
"Matchroom's director of boxing John Wischhusen agreed that Nigel probably won at least one of his last three fights but didn't get any of the decisions.
"Matchroom know his focus is winning the light-welterweight championship of Great Britain, but basically they needed to fill a gap and they came to us.
"I listened to the names involved and people like Ted Bami are names we are familiar with and ones Nigel would genuinely like to compete with."
It is the third Prizefighter event and the first below heavyweight.
The sport's big men have slugged it out for the first two tournaments, Martin Rogan winning the debut event at York Hall in April and Sam Sexton taking the top prize in Newcastle last month.
A cheque of £25,000 awaits the winner in London's eastend and Robinson admits it is a huge carrot which is being dangled in front of the boxers.
"There's a lot of money on the table - for someone who is a not a high earner it is a fantastic opportunity," he said.
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15/10/2008
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Gus Robinson has doubled the size of his pro boxing squad thanks to a treble signing.
Middlesbrough fighters Phil Boyle, Ben Johnston and Michael O'Gara have joined the Stranton House camp, joining established stars Geard Ajetovic, Paul Buchanan and Nigel Wright.
Boyle and O'Gara had represented the Brambles Farm club while Johnston had boxed for the Wellington.
All three are currently grafting hard at Gus Robinson Developments HQ in West View Road under coach Peter Cope and his assistant, Alan Temple.
O'Gara is the eldest member of the trio at 30 and will fight at bantamweight, while 26-year-old Boyle will compete at lightweight.
Light-welterweight Johnston is probably the pick of the trio in terms of potential - he's 19 and a former Australian junior champion.
Ben had emigrated with his family to Oz in 2006 but is now back on his native Teesside.
"He's won an Australian title, so that shows how good he is," said Cope.
"Ben's got a lot of ability - he can box and he makes people miss.
"Mousey [O'Gara) and Phil are both good lads too and they'll give it a real go.
"There's not a lot about at bantamweight so Mousey could have a good chance there and Phil has a big right hand and can really hit with it.
"I'm really pleased with the signings and it's another boost for the gym.
"With the amateurs doing so well and Nigel getting ready for the Prizefighter there is a real buzz about the place."
The boxers had their brain scans this week and will be required to appear in front of the Area Council of the British Boxing Board of Control before they are accepted into the professional ranks.
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02/10/2008
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Nigel Mick Hadfield has made a stunning start to the new season.
The 20-year-old Headland ABC boxer clinched the inaugural Tyne, Tees and Wear title at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.
Hadfield outclassed South Durham ABC's Jeff Saunders - the younger brother of ABA champ and Olympian Bradley - over the new amateur distance of three three-minute rounds.
Saunders, making his debut the seniors after a glittering junior career, actually won round one by the margin of 6-5 before Hadfield stepped up the pace and power.
Mick, an apprentrice electrician for Gus Robinson Developments, turned it on to win the middle session 15-2 and added another 16 points in the last.
Hadfield's coach, Tim Coulter, now hopes Mick can defend his belt on the Headland's annual autumn show at the Borough Hall.
"He was the overwheling favourite with Jeff being younger than him and with what Mick has already achieved," said Coulter.
"But he still had to go out there to get the job done.
"Sometimes when you are the favourite that is the hardest thing to do."
The Tyne, Tees and Wear champion series is the brainchild of Newbiggin coach and former fighter, Paul Scott, who wanted more meaningful fights for North East boxers.
The concept was taken on by this region's arm of the Amateur Boxing Association and it is likely that other ABA bodies will follow suit.
The titles must be defended every six weeks, provided a suitable challenger is put forward.
Gus Robinson said: "Congratulations to Mick for becoming the first Tyne, Tees and Wear champion.
"He has been an excellent boxer for a number of years now and we look forward to seeing him gain continued success."
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27/08/2008
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Nigel Wright's fourth defence of his English light-welterweight championship has been postponed.
The title holder is suffering from flu and has reluctantly withdrawn from the bout against Scott Haywood on Friday, September 5.
It is a bitter blow to the Gus Robinson southpaw, who had been hoping on pressing his claims for a British championship shot by beating the lanky Derby boxer in Nottingham.
But Wright began to struggle over the bank holiday weekend and Gus and coach Peter Cope agreed that a pull-out was the only feasible option open to them.
"We've contacted [promoter] Frank Maloney and he's happy to re-schedule it," said Cope.
"It's too close to the bout and we could not take any chances.
"And it's too important a fight not to be giving it everything.
"This is a 10-round title fight not a six-round sprint. Nigel has to be 100 per cent right.
"If he fought and was beaten, where would that leave his career?"
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18/08/2008
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New dad Paul Buchanan is on his way back to action.
The Gus Robinson middleweight has not fought for 14 months since being stopped by British champion Ryan Rhodes in Barnsley.
Buchanan is in training and his boss is hoping to get a bout for the 26-year-old in the new season, which gets under way next month.
Paul, whose wife Sarah recently gave birth to their first child, Isabelle, is close to boxing again, and it had been hoped he would fight unbeaten Hartlepool boxer Craig Denton for the Northern Area middleweight championship, but the contest did not come off.
Coach Peter Cope said: "Paul is a top 15 kid, no doubt about it, but he needs a fight and he needs a win.
"Paul's training, his weight's on the way down and now it's just a case of getting him a bout."
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15/08/2008
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Nigel Wright has just finished a training stint with Amir Khan - and the Gus Robinson fighter would love to get back in for some more.
Team Khan signed up Wright to spar with the Commonwealth lightweight champion ahead of a proposed September 6 clash with a southpaw opponent.
Nigel took part in two sessions with the young sensation, acquitting himself "very well" according to coach Peter Cope.
But Khan's opponent has now pulled out, meaning Amir is looking for some orthodox sparring.
"It's a pity," said Cope. "I went to down to watch and I think Amir got as much out of the sparring as Nigel.
"But the lad he was supposed to be fighting has pulled out and it's unlikely they'll get another southpaw opponent. That means they won't be using Nigel again.
"Shah (Amir's dad) said that it was very nice working with us and they'd like to work with us again in the future.
"They are proper nice people and Khan's new coach [Jorge Rubio] was very impressed with Nigel."
Cope explained that he thought Khan "looked fantastic" but added that Wright had "given as good as he got."
"Nigel was stronger than Khan, but Amir's quicker than anything I've ever seen before," said Cope.
"As Amir gets older, he will develop his strength and then he'll be an even better fighter.
"I was very pleased with Nigel. He's not always been the greatest of sparrers and may be the challenge of being in with Khan brought the best out of him, but I was very happy.
"Nigel hit him with a few decent shots and overall, he did very very well."
Wright will now look for some new sparring ahead of his English light-welterweight championship defence against Derby's Scott Haywood in Nottingham on Friday, September 5.
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22/07/2008
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Battling Nigel Wright must pick himself up for his latest defence of his English title in September after another hard luck story.
Wright suffered the fourth defeat of his professional career when he lost his international light-welterweight match with Paul McCloskey in Ireland on Saturday night.
The Gus Robinson star was outpointed 97-93 over 10 all-action rounds by the undefeated McCloskey at a packed Universitry Arena in Limerick.
It was a close-run bout, but referee David Irving's scoreline of seven rounds to three looked way out.
The defeat was Wright's third fight in a row without a win, though it could be argued that he deserved the verdict on all three occasions.
He outboxed Lenny Daws last November in a defence of his English light-welterweight belt, only for referee Phil Edwards to score it a 95-95 draw at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, London.
Then in February, Wright was beaten 116-113 by Ajose Olusegun in a challenge for the African's Commonwealth crown. Nigel led at the halfway point and while he did fade as the bout wore on, many observers felt he had done enough to win.
And his latest bit of heartache came in Saturday's non-title affair in Limerick.
Unlike his previous two bouts, Wright made a slow start to give McCloskey something of a totrrid time, particularly to the body, where he was very accurate.
The middle rounds looked Wright's and many neutrals in the arena felt it was a tight fight to call.
At the end of the 10th round, Nigel offered Mr Irving his hand, but in the Republic of Ireland the fighters and crowd need to wait until the result is announced by the Master of Ceremonies.
When MC Mike Goodall read out the scoreline of 97-93, Wright shook his head in disbelief and his corner of Peter Cope, George Schofield and boss Gus Robinson looked on bemused.
"I'm gutted," said Wright.
"I thought I'd done enough to get the decision. I outworked him and I believe I hit him with the cleaner shots.
"You could see by our faces in the hotel the morning after - he was all bashed up and there was hardly a mark on me."
Wright will now take a quick breather before preparing for his next defence of his English light-welterweight belt, against Scott Haywood in September.
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21/07/2008
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Geard Ajetovic suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time in his career when he was beaten in Russia at the weekend.
The Gus Robinson middleweight, beaten last month in Australia in a challenge for undefeated Tasmanian Daniel Geale's IBO world title, accepted a late late call up to a fight in Chekhov on Saturday.
Geard was up against another unbeaten fighter at the Olimpyskiy Sports Palace - Russia's KO king Dmitry Pirog. The 28-year-old went into the contest with 11 straight wins, 10 coming inside the distance.
For all Geard's talent, Pirog took the verdict on points.
"I'm not sure a tank could stop Geard," said Gus Robinson coach Peter Cope. "But it was always going to be hard for him to win over there.
"It was a real last-minute job and you've got to think he'd not been training for a fight while the Russian kid was always getting ready for a 10-rounder.
"Geard's up there with the best in the world in terms of talent but it was a big job going all the way over there against one of their top lads at such short notice."
With the all Robinson team of Cope, Paul Wainwright and George Schofield in Limerick for Nigel Wright's fight on Saturday night, Bristol-based coach/manager/ promoter Chris Sanigar was in Ajetovic's corner.
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2/07/2008
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Gus Robinson and Geard Ajetovic have returned home from Austalia without the International Boxing Organisation's middleweight belt.
But a points defeat to unbeaten Australian middleweight Daniel Geale in Campbelltown, New South Wales has not dampened the enthusiasm of the Hartlepool boxing boss.
Robinson still has high hopes of title opportunities for his 27-year-old boxer, who lost his undefeated tag for the Stranton House camp at the weekend.
Ajetovic pulled out some good punches against his fellow 27-year-old at the Campbelltown Catholic Club and caught the eye in rounds three, four, five and seven.
However, catching the eye and winning a 12-round points decision are poles apart and Geale won by being the busier boxer. Geard simply did not throw enough leather.
Yet, the scoring of the judges looked harsh, two gave it to Geale by a margin of 117-111, effectively nine rounds to three, while the third judge marked it as a landslide, 120-109, which meant he only gave Geard a share of one round.
Robinson, while a very loyal supporter to his fighters, is also an honest judge and described the scoring as "crazy" though he felt Geale "probably won by three or four rounds".
Sean Cunningham of the Camden Advertiser, the local newspaper in New South Wales, also believed the margin was unfair, saying: "Many knowledgable boxing fans in the crowd at Campbeltown, scored the fight much closer than the judges."
Despite defeat 11,000 miles from home and all the disappointment that brought, Gus is hopeful the team can move forward.
"It's not the end of the world," said the Costa Blanca Homes boss. "Geard is going to have to raise his game, but he has the ability, I have no doubt about that.
"You can have the greatest talent, but [to get success] it needs a lot of work over a long period of time.
"Geard was really down after the fight. He'd looked great and had excellent sparring and there was a lot of anticipation before the fight.
"We felt he had the potential, but he fell just short.
"Daniel never troubled him once and there wasn't a mark on Geard. He landed the clanest punches but there was not sufficient of them."
Robinson though paid full tribute to the champion who he described "as an absolute gentleman".
Gus added: "I have great admiration for Daniel. He looked every inch a champion - he's a clean-living lad, 110 per cent fit, and a model professional."
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2/07/2008
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Nigel Wright will move into the spotlight when he fights unbeaten Irishman Paul McCloskey on Saturday, July 19.
His Gus Robinson team-mate Geard Ajetovic failed to win in his opponent's backyard when he challenged Daniel Geale for the Aussie's IBO world middleweight title in New South Wales.
Wright must now go to Limerick to tackle the IBF international light-welterweight champ in a 10-round non-title bout.
Originally from Northern Ireland, McCloskey who, like Wright,was formerly promoted by Frank Warren, is now making his name in the south.
The 28-year-old has won all 16 of his bouts since turning pro in 2005 and has won his last two outings against Mexicans, Manuel Garnica and Cesar Bazan, both over 10 rounds.
Previous to that he stopped the ageing, though still handy, Tontcho Tontchev in four rounds to lift the vacant IBF international crown.
It all adds up to a testing journey for Wright though the southpaw is not shy of confidence himself.
He has impressed in his last three fights - he tore USA's Jonathan Nelson to shreds in a two-round stoppage in the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup in March 2007 and outboxed challenger Lenny Daws in an English Championship defence in London, though referee Phil Edwards amazingly scored it a draw.
Then Wright extended Commonwealth champion Ajose Olusegun in a tilt at the Nigerian's belt, though the challenger will kick himself that he faded after being in front on the judges' cards at the halfway stage.
And Wright is aware he can't let it slip against McCloskey.
"At this stage of my career, I need to be going places," said the 29-year-old.
"I need to be more ruthless - when I get in that ring I'm going to have to get the job done.
"I've got the power and I need to go all out to get what I want."
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26/06/2008
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Title rivals Daniel Geale and Geard Ajetovic today both weighed in inside the championship limit in Campbelltown.
The pair came face to face at the Rydges resort ahead of their IBO world middleweight match which takes place at the Campbelltown Catholic Club next door tomorrow.
Ajetovic's boss, Gus Robinson, said that both fighters looked in "fantastic condition" and had praise too for Geale's camp.
"The promoters are gentlemen, fabulous people, and the weigh-in was very professionally conducted and in great spirit," said Gus.
"Daniel seems a great lad and looks like Samson!
"But Geard is confident and said 'Don't worry Gus'."
A full house of 800 is expected at the plush New South Wales venue.
Australian club owner, Hans Sarlymyn, said: "It's going to a super night - it's a great venue.
"Clubs in Australia are not what they are like in England. Clubs here are like mini-casinos, with gaming machines, tables and the like.
"Campbelltown Catholic Club won the club of the year award in New South Wales, coming first out of 1,400 clubs, that's how good it is.
"The fight is being staged in their new entertainmenmt centre, called Cube, which holds 800 people, 400 seated in a dinner atmosphere and the rest in galley seating."
Tony Batten, executive assistant of the Boxing Authority of NSW, agreed with Robinson at how smoothly the weigh in ran.
"It was a magnificent ceremony," said Mr Batten. "Gus made a generous speech and presented gifts to his man's opponent and the promoters."
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25/06/2008
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He says he is ready, willing an able. Geard Ajetovic is less than 48 hours away from his challenge for the International Boxing Organisation's world title.
The 27-year-old, unbeaten since joining Gus Robinson's camp, faces the toughest test of his career when he gets in the ring with Australian middleweight Daniel Geale.
It will be the champion's maiden defence of the crown he first wore last December and he is the bookmakers' favourite.
But Geard believes he will do it.
"I'm in really, really good shape, I've been flying in training," he said. "I'm 100 per cent positive about this fight.
"In Liverpool I'd be sparring every day with the likes of (British champion) Tony Dodson and Joey Ainscough, then I sparred with Nigel Wright in Hartlepool.
"I'm ready and I do feel that nothing's going to stop me becoming the champion."
Ajetovic has been a fighter transformed since Robinson's inspired swoop to bring the Yugoslav to Stranton House.
The former world amateur number two drew on his debut for the Costa Blanca Homes boss last April, but has since rattled off four straight victories over PJ Maxwell, Robert Roselia, Joey Vegas and Francis Cheka.
To outpoint French ace Roselia, the IBF inter-continental champion, on his own soil after 10 rounds in Pont, near Paris, was an outstanding result and proof Geard can do the business away from home.
Boss Robinson said: "I recognise the difference in the condition from the time I first got him to how he is now. He's trained really hard and has tremendous ability.
"I said before I'd have no hesitation in putting Geard in with anyone in the world at 11st 6lb.
"Geale is a worthy champion and this is a wonderful opportunity for Geard."
Gus will be in Ajetovic's corner on Friday, along with George Schofield, who trains him when in Liverpool.
"I've been involved with training Geard for 12 months now and this is the best shape I've seen him in," said George.
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24/06/2008
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Coach Peter Cope has said Geard Ajetovic has a "real chance" of bringing a world title back to England.
The Gus Robinson star will meet Daniel Geale in Australia on Friday for the Tasmanian's International Boxing Organisation's middleweight belt.
Geale, with 18 straight wins to his credit, is favourite on his home soil in Campbelltown, New South Wales.
But the battle of the two 27-year-olds could go either way said Robinson coach Cope.
"Winning over there on points will not be easy," said Peter.
"To get the decision, Geard will probably have to win eight of the 12 rounds, that's how big he'd have to win it to get the verdict with the judges.
"But Geard has a chance, a real chance of winning.
"If he hits any 11-and-a-half-stone man in the world, he will knock them out, no matter who they are.
"Geard's a very clever boxer, but he has got the power to take people out.
"Sadly, I'm not there with him, but I'd be saying to him on Friday to have a little look at Geale and then have a go."
Cope has worked closely with the Serbian since Gus signed him in April 2007.
"He's an exceptional talent, there's no doubt about it," said Cope. "Geard deserves this shot and hopefully he's going to come back a champion."
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13/06/2008
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World title hopeful Geard Ajetovic is planning to deliver a 12,000-mile knock-out punch
The Gus Robinson middleweight star is preparing to jet out to Australia to challenge Daniel Geale for the Aussie fighter’s International Boxing Federation’s world title.
Ajetovic faces some task against the undefeated Tasmanian at Campbelltown, New South Wales, on Friday, June 27.
Geale’s record is an impressive 18 wins out of 18, a list which includes 10 stoppages, but the Serbian sensation, who signed for the Hartlepool team last year, is supremely confident.
“I know nothing about this lad I’m fighting and I really don’t care,” said Geard.
“I will find everything about him after two rounds and then I will knock him out.”
The former world amateur silver medalist does not plan to do any swatting up on his fellow 27-year-old.
“I don’t need to watch any videos because I am going there to get the title and knock him out,” said Ajetovic, who has also fought 18 times, winning 16, drawing one and losing one.
Ajetovic is preparing to leave in the next few days when he will be joined by Robinson and coach George Schofield, who trains him in Liverpool, where Geard lives with his partner and two young children.
Geard has just left Hartlepool, where he has trained with stablemate Nigel Wright.
“I train in Liverpool at the moment but two weeks before every fight I come here and sharpen myself up.
“I really enjoy sparring with Nigel because he is a great lad. The boxing gym is like a family.”
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09/06/2008
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Exciting Geard Ajetovic is gearing up for a dream tilt at a world title.
Boss Gus Robinson has secured his middleweight star a crack at the International Boxing Organisation's champion Daniel Geale, in Australia on Friday, June 27.
It is a dream opportunity for Ajetovic, who is unbeaten for the Stranton House team since joining in spring 2007.
Ajetovic is confident of success, although Geale is rated in the top 10 in three of the world's leading boxing organisations and is undefeated after 18 straight wins.
Geale too has 'home' advantage, the Aussie will be defending his crown in Campbelltown, near Sydney. Born in Tasmania, the 27-year-old is now based in Mt Annan, New South Wales.
But Ajetovic's fortunes have been transformed since putting pen to paper with the Hartlepool stable.
The gifted 27-year-old former world amateur silver medallist was snapped up by the Costa Blanca Homes chief after the Yugoslav's career had stalled.
Geard is now unbeaten in five contests for Gus. He drew with Sheffield's PJ Maxwell first time out in April 2007 before stopping him in three rounds in Barnsley in July.
Sandwiched in between was an excellent 10-round points victory near Paris against Frenchman Robert Roselia, the IBF inter-continental champion.
The former Olympic Games boxer stopped London-based Ugandan Joey Vegas at the York Hall, Bethnal Green last November on the undercard of stablemate Nigel Wright's English title defence against Lenny Daws.
Geard's last fight saw him outpoint another African, Tanzania's Francis Cheka, at Peterlee Leisure Centre in February this year.
His eight-round victory came after Wright's points defeat by Ajose Olusegun in their Commonwealth light-welterweight match.
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10/03/2008
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Manager Gus Robinson hopes to see boxing talent Geard Ajetovic move closer to ring honours in 2008.
The 26-year-old former world amateur silver medallist is approaching his first anniversary with the Stranton House team, with whom he is unbeaten.
Ajetovic signed for the Costa Blanca Homes boss last April after a frustrating first few years in the professional game.
The Serbian middleweight's record was not a bad one, but he was making little progress.
Since signing for the Gus Robinson gym, Ajetovic has fought five times, drawing his opener against Sheffield's PJ Maxwell before four straight wins against Robert Roselia, Maxwell, Joey Vegas and Francis Cheka.
His excellent 10-round points victory near Paris against Roselia, the IBF inter-continental champion, was the pick of the bunch, though the way he dismantled Maxwell and Vegas was quite breathtaking.
His most recent victory came at the end of the Nigel Wright vs Ojose Olusegun show at Peterlee Leisure Centre.
Ajetovic won with something to spare against the Tanzanian, referee Mark Curry awarding him an 80-74 scoreline.
Cheka was down in the last though it was not counted as a knockdown and despite being hit, sporadically it has to be said, by some heavy artillery, the African made it through to the finish.
"He is such a talent," said coach Peter Cope. "I don't think I've worked on the pads with anyone as good as him.
"Geard has so much ability and the power he generates from seemingly any angle is frightening.
"But he has yet to transfer what he does in the gym into a fight situation. When he does the world's his oyster."
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26/02/2008
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Nigel Wright's dream of winning a major title will have to wait a little bit longer before being achieved.
The Gus Robinson star was beaten on points when he lost in his challenge for the Commonwealth light-welterweight championship at Peterlee Leisure Centre.
Despite leading after the first half of the 12-round battle, Wright was forced to give second best to title holder Ajose Olusegun.
The London-based Nigerian had predicted he would win inside two rounds, but instead the Frank Maloney-managed fighter had to tough out his 22nd straight professional win on points.
All three judges - Phil Edwards, Howard Foster and John Keane - scored it 116-113, which looked a fair judgement.
Given Wright had looked so good for so long, there was disappointment he had not sustained his effort and lifted the Commonwealth belt in front of his adoring fans.
"Nigel's gutted, I'm gutted, we're all gutted," said coach Peter Cope.
"It's a massive opportunity gone and you've got to say Nigel threw it away.
"After eight rounds, Nigel was ahead on the cards of two judges and level on the third.
"But he never won anything of the last four rounds.
"He was bossing the fight, I don't know what went wrong. He came into the changing room afterwards and said that he could have done another eight rounds, so fitness was not an issue.
"It wasn't like a bad performance, he boxed well for a long spell and it was there to be won, but he didn't win it.
"Olusegun dug in and showed his champion qualities, that proved the difference."
Wright is still the English light-welterweight champion so his next fight could be a fourth defence of that belt.
"There is plenty of ability there," added Cope. "Hopefully, he's in the British title picture still and another opportunity will come."
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01/02/2008
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Gus Robinson watched the final sparring session between Nigel Wright and Geard Ajetovic and declared: They’re both ready for the big night.
That big night is just seven days away.
Wright challenges Ajose Olusegun for the London-based Nigerian’s Commonwealth light-welterweight title at Peterlee Leisure Centre.
On the undercard, Ajetovic also has African opposition as he meets Tanzanian middleweight title holder Francis Cheka over six rounds.
Robinson said: “Nigel looks in fantastic shape, the way he was taking some of those body shots from Geard.
“The sparring has been excellent and I can see it has been of great benefit, not only to Nigel, but to Geard.
“They both look in first-class condition.”
The Costa Blanca Homes boss, who is co-promoting next Friday’s event with Barry Hearn, also believes the close relationship between the two fighters will pay dividends for Wright.
“Geard has been staying with me and the two lads have been running on the morning and sparring in the evening,” said Gus.
“But it has been that time in the afternoons which has been vital.
“When this fight was made I said to Geard: ‘I want you to sit down with Nigel and give him the benefit of your advice and experience’.
“Geard has had hundreds of fights and fought at the very highest level and is a very intelligent lad.
“Spending the afternoons together just talking I’m sure will be as beneficial as the sparring sessions.”
For ticket information, contact Gus Robinson Promotions on (01429) 234221.
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29/01/2008
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Nigel Wright is back training in Hartlepool after a productive visit to Manchester.
The Commonwealth light-welterweight championship challenger has been to the North-West to spar with David Barnes.
And the Gus Robinson-managed boxer did "very well" against the former British welterweight title holder.
Wright's coach, Peter Cope, explained that the sessions with Barnes proved invaluable ahead of the contest against Ajose Olusegun at Peterlee Leisure Centre on Friday, February 8.
Cope said: "The first night was OK, not great, but on the second day, Nigel was very good.
"David Barnes is a class act, so for Nigel to perform as he did was very encouraging."
Barnes boxes out of Bob Shannon's Fighting Fit gym, the base for the recently-retired Ali Nuumbembe.
The Namibian was stopped by Olusegun when the two Africans clashed in London in June 2006.
"They obviously know a bit about Olusegun," said Cope.
"They said when Nuumbembe fought him, Ali had to take something like 10 pounds off in order to make the weight.
"For Olusegun to beat Ali is a helluva result, but it looks as though Nuumbembe was weight-drained.
"Obviously, there are no such concerns with Nigel, he is looking great.
"Bob Shannon reckoned we had a good chance after the first spar but after the second thought we had a great chance.
"That gives us a lot of confidence."
Liverpool fight guru Charles Atkinson, a well-known boxing figure who has worked closely with the Gus Robinson team, was also encouraged.
"Charles came to watch the sparring and he was very impressed with Nigel," said Cope. "He's been involved in goodness knows how many world title fights and his expertise and opinions have been invaluable.
"I'm really pleased with Nigel in every area of his work and the longer the build up goes the more confident I am getting."
For ticket information, contact Gus Robinson Promotions on (01429) 234221.
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23/01/2008
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Commonwealth champion Ajose Olusegun will be struck by more than Nigel Wright’s two fists when he defends his light-welterweight title in Peterlee.
Challenger Wright’s ‘Barmy Army’ are set to hit the unbeaten Nigerian with a wall of noise on Friday, February 9.
The Gus Robinson southpaw is delighted to be on home soil after having title fights in Doncaster, Glasgow and London over the last three years.
“It’s fantastic for my supporters,” said the 28-year-old.
“They’ve been everywhere to watch me over the years – London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Portsmouth, all over the place.
“It’s nice to have a local fight.
“I think Olusegun might be in for a bit of a shock when he walks into the hall at Peterlee Leisure Centre and hears the barmy army. In fact, I think a few people are going along to cheer me on at the weigh-in.
“I can’t wait for the day now – it’s a dream fight.”
Not only will Wright be supported on the bill by team-mate Geard Ajetovic, he will have the cream of North-East talent on the show with him.
Hartlepool’s former European super-bantamweight champion Michael Hunter will fight Syria’s Yousef Al Hamedi, while there are appearances for unbeaten heavyweights Chris Burton and David Dolan and undefeated Teessiders Gavin Read and Paul Truscott.
For tickets, contact Gus Robinson Promotions on (01429) 234221.
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20/01/2008
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Paul Buchanan will be back in the Gus Robinson gym next week – though he won’t be returning to the ring at Nigel Wright’s title show in Peterlee.
The 26-year-old has been out for a short break due to family commitments, but can’t wait to get down to work again at the Stranton House HQ.
“I’m looking forward to it,” said the middleweight.
“I won’t be back in time to fight on the Peterlee show, but hopefully I’ll be ready to box again by the end of March.”
Paul is looking to bounce back after being on the wrong end of two defeats last year.
He was outpointed at the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup in his native Newcastle by the world-class Jerson Ravelo when he represented the UK Contenders against the USA at the end of March.
And Buchanan then suffered the first stoppage of his career when he met the rejuvenated Ryan Rhodes, the former British champion and world title challenger, in Barnsley in June. The Sheffield middleweight, once known as the Spice Boy, stopped him after a first-round barrage.
The defeats hit Paul hard, but he intends to be back in the ring soon.
“It’s not like I lost to mediocre fighters,” said Buchanan. “I lost to two top line men.
“But I’m only 26 and I’ll come back refreshed after my break and I’m looking forward to fighting again.”
Paul says he’ll be at Peterlee Leisure Centre on Friday, February 8, to support Wright and fellow team-mate Geard Ajetovic.
“It’s a really good opportunity for Nigel,” said Buchanan. “It’s not going to be easy, but it’s going to be in his own backyard. All the support is going to be with him.”
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16/01/2008
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Gus Robinson ace Geard Ajetovic hopes he can “make a difference” to Nigel Wright for his title shot.
The top-class middleweight, who joined the Robinson camp last year, is in Hartlepool this week working with Wright ahead of his Commonwealth light-welterweight challenge against Ajose Olusegun on Friday, February 8, in Peterlee.
Ajetovic is running with Wright every morning in Ward Jackson Park and sparring with the 28-year-old in the Stranton House Gym on an afternoon.
The former Yugoslavia international rates Olusegun having seen him up close at the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000.
“I sparred with him when we were at the Olympics and he’s very strong,” said Geard during a break in training at the West View Road HQ.
“I’m not surprised he has been good as a pro.
“But I think Nigel can beat him. Nigel is a very good boxer and strong himself.
“Olusegun can bang, so Nigel’s going to have to box a smart fight, but he can do it.”
Ajetovic has turned southpaw in sparring just so Wright can get the feel of what it’s going to be like against the London-based Nigerian.
He has also has been giving his stablemate a few tips, adding: “When we’re in close in sparring, I can feel how tense Nigel is.
“I’ve been trying to get him to relax more because you lose up a lot of energy being tense.
“I’m enjoying working with Nigel and I hope I can help him win that title.”
Ajetovic is in action himself at the Peterlee Leisure Centre show and hopes to build on his win over Joey Vegas at the York Hall in London last November.
There had been hopes of fighting for a title early this year though no opening has yet materialised.
“Hopefully after this contest or the one after I may get the chance at a championship, maybe an inter-continental or something like that,” he said. “I will leave that sort of thing to Gus.
“I’ve had four fights in less than a year since I signed for Gus and this will be five. Things are going well.”
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11/01/2008
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Nigel Wright has been given the "dream" opportunity to fight for a major title.
The Gus Robinson star will challenge Commonwealth light-welterweight champion Ajose Olusegun at Peterlee Leisure Centre on Friday, February 8.
The London-based Nigerian has won all 21 of his professional fights, stopping 11 of his victims.
“I can’t wait for it – it’s a dream fight,” Wright told www.gusrobinson.com.
The 28-year-old, who defended his English title with a draw against Londoner Lenny Daws in the capital in November, is thrilled with the prospect of making his challenge on home turf.
Promoters Matchroom, in association with Gus Robinson Promotions, will stage the bill, which wlll also be screened live on Sky Sports.
“It’s exciting – it’s the biggest fight of my life,” said Wright. “I must thank Gus for the good job he’s done and to Matchroom.
“It’s a massive opportunity – it’s not just a big title to win but it’s also about what can come from it.
“Beating Olusegun would be a massive scalp because he is world class.
“You don’t get to number seven with the WBC if you aren’t any good."
For ticket information, contact Gus Robinson Promotions on (01429) 234221.
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11/01/2008
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Nigel Wright has "every chance" of lifting the Commonwealth light-welterweight championship.
That was the positive message from his boss Gus Robinson following the official announcement of Wright's fight against Ajose Olusegun at Peterlee Leisure Centre on Friday, February 8.
The English champion will start as the underdog against the Nigerian, who is based in London and managed by Frank Maloney, the boss who guided Lennox Lewis top world heavyweight title glory .
“Olusegun appears to be a formidable opponent,” said Gus.
“But I believe Nigel has every chance of winning.
“He is a talented professional with a very good team behind him and this is a tremendous opportunity for him.
"Nigel has proven to be a top professional after winning two ABA titles as an amateur and boxed for his country, including at the Commonwealth Games.
"He has sufficient experience and ability to be competing for these championships.
"Nigel has a good team working with him and we've identified areas to improve his performance.
"And Nigel is capable of making those improvements and becoming an even better boxer."
Olusegun, who boasts a 100 per cent record of 21 wins out of 21, won the Commonwealth crown by outpointing Stoke's Gary Reid at Crystal Palace, London, in June last year.
Wright's stablemate Geard Ajetovic will also be in action at Peterlee Leisure Centre, either over six or eight rounds.
"Geard is one of the best middleweights in the world," added Gus. "It's a great opportunity for the people in this area to see him perform."
Hartlepool's former British, Commponwealth and European super-bantamweight champion, Michael Hunter, will be the chief support on the bill.
For ticket information, contact Gus Robinson Promotions on (01429) 234221.
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16/11/2007
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Eager Nigel Wright has said he would consider a switch in weight division in order to secure a big fight.
The Gus Robinson star successfully defended his English light-welterweight championship by drawing with Lenny Daws at the York Hall in Bethnal Green.
However, a tilt at the British light-welterweight title could be some distance off - champion Colin Lynes must face David Barnes of Manchester after he has had a crack at the European 10st crown.
That wait could leave Nigel twiddling his thumbs and at the age of 28, he said that scenario was no good to him.
He is happy to defend his English title but could have few takers - potential challengers Young Muttley and Ashley Theopane both pulled out after being proposed as opponents by the British Boxing Board of Control.
"I'm sick of people pulling out," said Wright. "I'm proud to be the English champion and will be happy to defend it.
"I'll fight anyone, that's how I've been brought up.
"As a boxer you are there to fight, that's your job. I don't understand and I don't like people refusing bouts."
With light-welterweight opportunities not straight forward, Nigel said he'd consider stepping up a division to have a crack at Kevin McIntyre's welter crown or slim down to have a go at Britain's hottest boxing property Amir Khan.
"Khan is young, fast and clever, but he has a dodgy chin," said Nigel.
"He got put down by an absolute non-puncher in Willie Limond, so I know I'd be capable of hurting him.
"Khan's getting bigger so it might be that he comes up to my weight, but I'd consider going down to his division.
"I made 10 stone easy for Wednesday night and I'd have to lose another six pounds to get down to lightweight.
"I've not been at lightweight since I was 16 or 17 so it may be a bit of a struggle and we'd have to consult a dietician and stuff like that.
"But I'd seriously think about doing it because I want a big fight."
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16/11/2007
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Gus Robinson is looking to move of the careers forward of Nigel Wright and Geard Ajetovic after a night of 'success' in London.
Wright defended his English light-welterweight title when he drew with challenger Lenny Daws at the York Hall in Bethnal Green. And on the same bill, Ajetovic stopped tough Ugandan super-middleweight Joey Vegas.
Ajetovic, making his fourth appearance for the Stranton House set-up, began well before seemingly going to sleep in rounds two and three against the busier Vegas.
But the 26-year-old former world amateur silver medallist woke up in round four and a stunning left-right-left combination rocked Vegas. The Tottenham-based fighter fell onto the ropes in his own corner and looking out on his feet, referee Dave Parris jumped in to stop the bout after 39 seconds of round four.
"Geard is an incredible talent," said Gus. "I'm speaking to promoters about him.
"I'll put him in with any middleweight, anywhere in the world."
Some sort of title chance should beckon for the Serbian.
Wright's future is less easy to predict following his 95-95 draw with Daws in their re-match in the eastend.
He should still be in pole position for a shot at the British championship, but Manchester's David Barnes is first in the queue to fight belt holder Colin Lynes, so Nigel would probably have to wait until well into 2008.
Wright looked the winner against the Londoner, a fighter who had been his nemesis as an amateur and pro.
The Peter Cope-trained boxer won the first four rounds with ease, his right jab landing time and again, while he also scored with some sharp right-left combinations.
From round five, Daws upped his workrate and with the contest becoming a little messy, it became a bit more difficult to score. It became a choice between the graft of Lenny or the cleaner work of Nigel.
When Daws ploughed forward to take the ninth round it appeared that it merely closed the gap.
Amazingly, referee Phil Edwards though had Daws in front, as had Sky TV commentator Glenn McCrory.
Wright's corner of Peter Cope, Dean Powell and Alan Temple sent out their man for a big final round and a good job too! Nigel's aggression took the last session and referee Edwards raised both hands for Wright to retain his title.
The verdict at ringside was split - boss Robinson had Wright well in front and Mail writer Roy Kelly and Boxing News correspondent Andy Whittle had Nigel winning by four rounds. Glenn McCrory scored it as a draw on TV and Dave Hall, a member of the Sky Sports team, also thought it a fair result.
Gus said: "We're not in a clear-cut position at the moment.
"Of course, Nigel is capable of competing at the top domestic and European level.
"But the British title picture is a little tied up at the moment, so we may have to exercise a little patience."
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14/11/2007
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Nigel Wright's mouthwatering English light-welterweight battle with Lenny Daws will be screened live on Sky Sports 1 tonight.
The Hartlepool boxer defends his crown against his arch-rival in London’s York Hall arena.
The fight is scheduled for 8.05pm.
Earlier in the evening, Gus Robinson team-mate Geard Ajetovic can add to his unbeaten run for the Stranton House camp by beating tough African Joey Vegas on the undercard.
Ajetovic has been training in Liverpool under former world champion Shea Neary and under the expert eye of renowned Merseyside fight figure Charles Atkinson.
“Obviously for such a pivotal fight for Nigel, we have concentrated 100 per cent on him here,” said Gus. “But Geard has been well looked after in Liverpool.”
Vegas will be a hard match over six rounds on the Hennessy Sports-promoted show at Bethnal Green.
The 25-year-old from Uganda, now based in Tottenham, won his first 10 pro fights though has lost his last two, including an appearance on the Joe Calzaghe undercard at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
Geard’s coach Peter Cope said: “Vegas is definitely a live opponent.”
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13/11/2007
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Proud champion Nigel Wright insisted he is in the right shape to make it third time lucky against Lenny Daws.
Wright defends his English light-welterweight title against the cockney fighter in London tonight.
Daws has beaten Nigel both times the old rivals have met – in a junior final in 1997 and in May 2006 for the vacant British championship.
Lenny (29), comfortably defeated the Gus Robinson star last time out on a wide points decision in the York Hall, where the gladiators fight tonight.
And the 28-year-old Wright says there will be no slip-ups tonight.
"Technically, I'm the better man, but last time he did me on fitness,” said the hard-hitting southpaw.
"But we've worked on all that and at the moment I feel the fittest light-welterweight on earth.
"If all he's got is fitness then if that's taken out of the equation, has he got anything else to beat me?
"I feel good - I know a lot of boxers say it before their fight, but I'm in the best shape of my life - now I can't wait
"But it's not a question of who will win, it's a case of will he be able to survive the 10 rounds?"
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6/10/2007
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Gus Robinson star Nigel Wright’s date for his long-awaited re-match with rival Lenny Daws has been announced.
Wright will defend his English light-welterweight championship at York Hall in London’s eastend on Wednesday November 14.
Hennessy Sports, promoters of Daws, won the purse bids and will stage the match at the same Bethnal Green venue where Daws outpointed Wright to win the vacant British crown in May 2006.
Daws was a clear winner that night – Wright won the opening three rounds before fading as the cockney fighter took control to win 117-111 on all three judges’ scorecards.
Nigel is pleased the contest is going ahead at the York Hall, saying: “I want to prove myself on Lenny’s patch.”
Wright’s trainer Peter Cope said: “It’s exciting. The preparation will be absolutely right this time.
“Last time the preparations were not what they should have been and I’m not trying to take anything away from Lenny because he fully deserved his win.
“I will guarantee 100 per cent that this time Nigel will be better, that was not the best Nigel Wright that Lenny faced last time.”
Since the defeat to Daws, the Frank Warren-promoted Wright has returned to form.
He made a successful defence of his English title when he outboxed Stoke-on-Trent’s Gary Reid in Glasgow in November 2006 and in March this year he demolished USA’s Jonathan Nelson in two rounds at the Metro Radio Arena in the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup.
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18/07/2007
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Gus Robinson could be set to take boxing talent Geard Ajetovic away to move him into the higher echelons of the sport.
Gus has already made his mark on the continent thanks to his Costa Blanca homes development and now he could build abroad with Geard.
Ultimately, the team would like him to fight for the European title, but there are other irons in the fire.
"We'll talk to the major promoters," said Gus. "There is a Serbian promoter, who knows Geard well, who promotes in South Africa.
"But we could go into Europe.
"The World Boxing Association have a European belt - a Spaniard called Ruben Diaz is the EBA champion. That would be something we'd be interested in."
Ajetovic stopped Sheffield's PJ Maxwell in Barnsley last time out, impressing not only the ringside media with his third-round triumph, but his corner of Gus, coach Peter Cope and Alan Temple.
It was the Serbian's third fight for the Robinson team and his second victory, following on from a draw at Wembley in April in the first Maxwell fight.
"Some of his shots and angles were fantastic," said Gus. "He's getting better each time.
"In his first fight for us, there was very little variety in his work.
"In his second contest, because he was up against a counter-puncher, he was forced to come forward. In that regard, he had to come out of his comfort zone - he had to fight a different way. He recorded a very notable victory.
"Last Friday, he was giving away weight and was on his opponent's show, but he got another good win."
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17/07/2007
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Exciting Gus Robinson middleweight Geard Ajetovic has taken a decisive step towards star class.
The 26-year-old stopped arch-rival PJ Maxwell in Barnsley with a third-round demolition job in Barnsley on Friday night.
The pair had fought out a 57-57 draw at Wembley on Geard’s debut for Gus in April but the re-match in South Yorkshire was short and very sweet for Ajetovic.
After some skilful boxing interspersed with spiteful punches in the opening two sessions, he decked Maxwell midway through round three with a stunning right-left combination.
The highly-muscled Sheffield fighter was up smartly, but the writing was on the wall as the former Olympic Games boxer from Serbia swarmed all over him.
Ajetovic sent in punch after punch against Maxwell, who was wobbling on the ropes, prompting referee Mike Alexander to step in at two minutes 24 seconds.
“I think he had us all fooled in the third round!” smiled Gus Robinson.
“We thought he had sat back too much, but insisted all along he was letting Maxwell punch himself out.
“The finish was very impressive. He’d told me before the fight he was going to stop him in the third.
“But I think the outstanding feature from Geard’s performance was his wide variety of shots and angles, they were brilliant.
“Plus he threw a lot of combinations which isn’t his natural game.
“Geard fought to the instructions laid down to him and we were very pleased.”
Ajetovic’s three-round sprint followed up his wonderful distance win in France at the end of May.
Geard defeated IBF inter-continental middleweight champion Robert Roselia over 10 rounds at Pont near Paris on Tuesday May 29.
While a non-title contest, victory over an experienced championship fighter gave the former world amateur silver medallist a lift in the European ratings and earned him recognition as a middleweight on the move.
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14/07/2007
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Nigel Wright faces the prospect of travelling back to London for his re-match with Lenny Daws.
Hennessy Sports, the promoters of Lenny, won the purse bids to stage the Wright v Daws match for the English light-welterweight championship. The mouth-watering battle is earmarked for November 2.
The 10st rivals met in May 2006 for the vacant British championship at the York Hall – Daws scoring a comprehensive points victory over the gifted Gus Robinson southpaw.
Since then, the Londoner, nicknamed Lightning Lenny, has lost his grip on the Lonsdale Belt, being beaten by Barry Morrison.
The Scot was subsequently beaten by experienced Essex campaigner Colin Lynes and the British Boxing Board of Control have said he must defend against the winner of Daws and Wright.
The 117-111 defeat at Bethnal Green was only the second blemish on Wright’s pro log and he’s aiming “to put the record straight.” The 28-year-old said: “I’m pleased it looks like the fight’s going to be at the York Hall, because I want to prove myself on Lenny’s patch.
“I don’t want to take anything away from Lenny because he was the best boxer on the night and he’s a good man and his people were very respectful towards me.
“But that wasn’t the best Nigel Wright that night for several reasons – I’m sure Lenny would probably say the same about the time he lost to Morrison.
“The real Nigel Wright will be there this time.”
Since losing to Daws, the Frank Warren-promoted Wright has responded in perfect fashion.
He produced a flawless performance to outpoint Gary Reid in a successful defence of his English title in Glasgow and then butchered America’s Jonathan Nelson in two rounds at the Metro Radio Arena at the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup in March.
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14/07/2007
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Young star Mick Hadfield can look forward to next season with optimism after a good year at home and international level.
The talented teenager is just back from Yugoslavia, where he represented England in the European Junior Championships.
The Headland boxer was eliminated in the first round of the Under 57 kilo division by a gifted Serbian, F Ajvazi, 22-14, but the trip will have given Hadfield more valuable experience.
Already this year, the Gus Robinson Developments apprentice electrician has made confident strides forward.
The 18-year-old won for Young England against Germany in Basingstoke and in May he clinched the Junior ABA Championship at Crystal Palace.
Gus Robinson said: “We are very pleased to see how well Mick has done.
“He’s moved up a couple of divisions over the last year or so, but it has not slowed down his great progress.”
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09/06/2007
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Exciting Geard Ajetovic is gearing up for a dream tilt at a world title.
Boss Gus Robinson has secured his middleweight star a crack at the International Boxing Organisation's champion Daniel Geale, in Australia on Friday, June 27.
It is a dream opportunity for Ajetovic, who is unbeaten for the Stranton House team since joining in spring 2007.
Ajetovic is confident of success, although Geale is rated in the top 10 in three of the world's leading boxing organisations and is undefeated after 18 straight wins.
Geale too has 'home' advantage, the Aussie will be defending his crown in Campbelltown, near Sydney. Born in Tasmania, the 27-year-old is now based in Mt Annan, New South Wales.
But Ajetovic's fortunes have been transformed since putting pen to paper with the Hartlepool stable.
The gifted 27-year-old former world amateur silver medallist was snapped up by the Costa Blanca Homes chief after the Yugoslav's career had stalled.
Geard is now unbeaten in five contests for Gus. He drew with Sheffield's PJ Maxwell first time out in April 2007 before stopping him in three rounds in Barnsley in July.
Sandwiched in between was an excellent 10-round points victory near Paris against Frenchman Robert Roselia, the IBF inter-continental champion.
The former Olympic Games boxer stopped London-based Ugandan Joey Vegas at the York Hall, Bethnal Green last November on the undercard of stablemate Nigel Wright's English title defence against Lenny Daws.
Geard's last fight saw him outpoint another African, Tanzania's Francis Cheka, at Peterlee Leisure Centre in February this year.
His eight-round victory came after Wright's points defeat by Ajose Olusegun in their Commonwealth light-welterweight match.
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02/04/2007
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NIGEL Wright produced a stunning display at the big boxing event so far in 2007.
But it proved a mixed night for Gus Robinson’s boxing team as Nigel’s colleague, Paul Buchanan, was beaten in the inaugural Sugar Ray Leonard Cup.
The pair were in the eight-man UK side who fought the US Contender team at the Metro Radio Arena on Friday night.
The American team, based around competitors from the hit reality-TV series, The Contender, took home the trophy, but it’s hoped the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup will become an annual fixture.
Wright, boxing second at the Newcastle venue, was too quick, too hard and too good for Jonathan Nelson.
The Warrior from Oklahoma City was a late replacement for former world champion Michael Clark, who was ruled out because of personal reasons. He did arrive with a record which included 15 stoppage wins out of 16.
Nelson probably wished he’d stayed on the other side of the Atlantic as his night was ended in under 10 minutes.
The English light-welterweight champion put down Nelson, who was also cut and then hurt just before the end of round two with a crunching body shot.
Nelson retired before the start of round three to give Nigel a good victory.
Buchanan was beaten on points by one of the US Contender side’s leading stars.
Jerson Ravelo, born in the Dominican Republic, who he represented in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, proved too good for Paul.
Buchanan went the full eight rounds, but Ravelo, now based in Newark, New Jersey, took an unanimous verdict. It was the first defeat of Paul’s career.
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02/04/2007
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Gus Robinson star Nigel Wright is ready for a second crack at the British title.
Wright, who is the holder of the English 10st belt, looked every inch a national championship fighter when he won his bout at the Sugar Ray Leonard Cup in Newcastle at the weekend.
Such was the barrage of punches thrown by Nigel, American opponent, Jonathan Nelson, retired at the end of two torrid rounds at the Metro Radio Arena.
“Nigel proved he was a couple of levels above Nelson,” trainer Peter Cope said.
“He’s got his confidence back and he’s firing on all cylinders.
“The plan was to take a couple of rounds just to look at Nelson, but Nigel only needed one to weigh him up.
“He had him down, the lad was cut and then hurt by a body shot and didn’t come out after the second.
“If he had, it was only going to be a matter of time before Nigel got him.
“Hopefully now, Nigel will get back in for the British title and this time he’ll win it.”
While there was joy for Wright, there was disappointment for Paul Buchanan.
The 25-year-old had the hardest task of all the UK side as he came up against Jerson Ravelo.
Born in the Dominican Republic, the middleweight now fighting out of Newark, New Jersey, was a unanimous points winner after eight rounds.
Sadly for Paul, it was the first defeat of his career.
Cope said: “Paul was in with a world-rated lad.
“He was a big, long, nightmare opponent, who no-one else would fight.
“Paul had a bit of success in the fifth and the last but he probably didn’t try to take the fight to him enough.
“I think Paul’s a bit disappointed in himself, which is a good sign. He doesn’t want to settle for second best.
“Ravelo’s a very very good fighter, but hopefully Paul will learn from it and come back better.”
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02/04/2007
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A North-East boxing star has made a successful comeback.
Tony Jeffries, back in action after a lengthy scored a great win in the England v Hungary international in London last month.
The light-heavyweight, who is sponsored by Gus Robinson Developments, stopped Imre Szello at the Newham Leisure Centre where England won 9-2.
Showing the greater variety of punches, Jeffries was on top when Szello pulled out after round two complaining of an eye injury.
Tony, who has done some sparring at Gus Robinson’s West View Road HQ, boxes for Sunderland ABC.
On the same show, another boxer who has connections with the Stranton House gym, Bradley Saunders also scored a notable victory. The ABAlight-welterweight champion outpointed Hungarian number one and the world and European bronze medallist, Gyula Kate.
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02/04/2007
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Boxing prospect Mick Hadfield has hit the winning trail at domestic and international level.
The talented fighter celebrated his 18th birthday with victory for Young England against Germany and then started the Junior ABA Championship by winning the Tyne, Tees and Wear title.
Mick, an apprentice electrician with Gus Robinson Developments, boxes for the Headland ABC gym, which is based in Northgate.
Hadfield helped the Young England team to a handsome win over the Germans in Basingstoke in February, taking an emphatic Under 54 kilo points verdict over Rocco Hinz after four rounds.
Mick continues to grow though and moved up a division to start his Junior ABA campaign at the Rainton Lodge Arena (formerly the McEwans Centre).
In the Tyne, Tees and Wear Under 57 kilo final, Hadfield defeated old foe Kirk Goodings of Sunderland ABC on a majority points decision.
“It could have gone either way, it was that close,” Headland ABC coach Tim Coulter said. “Mick got through with some great body shots as the bout wore on, but sometimes the judges don’t score body punches.”
Mick boxes in the next stage on Saturday, April 7.
Gus Robinson said: “We are delighted to see Mick’s continued progress in boxing. He’s a credit to his club, this organisation and the town.”
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10/02/2007
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GUS Robinson fighters Nigel Wright and Paul Buchanan
are to fight on an exciting boxing event being staged
in the North-East.
Wright, England's light-welterweight champion, and
undefeated middleweight prospect Buchanan will box in
a prestigious UK v USA match at the Metro Radio Arena,
Newcastle, on Friday, March 30.
The event, promoted by Frank Warren, will be filmed by
ITV for a series of one-hour weekly programmes to be
broadcast in this country and the United States.
The teams will be fighting for the inaugural Sugar Ray
Leonard Cup - a boxing version of golf's Ryder Cup.
Sugar Ray was in Newcastle yesterday to launch the
tournament and Wright and Buchanan shared the top
table at the press conference with boxing legend.
Leonard will captain the USA team, with former world
champion Barry McGuigan the skipper of the UK side.
Buchanan described the call up as "the chance of a
lifetime" while Wright said it was "an opportunity to
showcase my talent to the world."
Sugar Ray has long dreamed of a UK v USA match
following the success of hit US reality TV show, The
Contender.
The Contender, like programmes such as X Factor and
the Apprentice, follows would-be boxing stars from
auditions through to the finals.
Shown in over 100 countries around the world, The
Contender has made stars of its contestants.
Indeed, one, Peter Manfredo, will be challenging Joe
Calzaghe for his world super-middleweight title in
Cardiff in April.
Leonard said that this special Contender international
could help propel Buchanan and Wright and their fellow
fighters to stardom.
"I have only just met these men today, but I can see
the intensity and feel the dedication, commitment and
conviction needed to be a champion," Sugar Ray said.
"Both exude confidence and they sit here as winners.
"They have those special qualities which are important
if they are to succeed in what's a pretty tough
business."
Tickets for the event are priced at £25 and £40.
For more information, contact the Metro Radio Arena on
(0191) 2606061.
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14/12/2006
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PAUL Buchanan's hopes of getting a morale-boosting win before Christmas on a high-profile show have been dashed.
The 25-year-old, without a bout in 2006, had been
lined up for a place on the undercard of Friday
night's British title shoot-out between Richard
Williams and Howard Eastman in London.
However, promoters Matchroom could not secure Buchanan
a contest.
It is a setback for the quietly-spoken Geordie, who
had been in full training at the Stranton House gym.
Boss Gus Robinson will be looking to secure him an
opportunity in the new year with a view to pushing him
towards title contention.
Coach Peter Cope said: "Matchroom were very apologetic
and their director of boxing rang Paul to speak to
him.
"It is disappointing, because Paul has had some
terrible luck. He should have had an eliminator this
year only for Wayne Pinder to pull out and no-one will
take on Paul because he's a dangerman.
"I'm confident 2007 will be a big year for him."
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30/11/2006
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AMBITIOUS fighter Paul Buchanan is to get the chance to showcase his talents after being lined up to box on a major pre-Christmas domestic show.
The undefeated Gus Robinson middleweight is set to appear on the Matchroom-promoted bill at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday December 15, an event which will be screened live by Sky Sports.
It is a big boost for the 25-year-old, who has gone 12 months without a contest.
His coach, Peter Cope, thinks Buchanan could get a six or eight round bout.
“It’s just what Paul needs,” said Cope.
“We do hope he gets into championship contention next year and a good bout and impressive win at the York Hall can move him forward.
“Howard Eastman and Richard Williams are fighting for the vacant British middleweight title there that night so what better place and time to show what he can do.”
Buchanan, who recently signed a contract extension with Gus Robinson’s camp, is “looking good” according to Cope.
“I’ve said it before, but Paul is a privilege to train,” he said.
“He’s a good kid, lives the right lifestyle and is totally dedicated. He’s not short of talent either!
“Paul’s had some bad luck this year, but he’s trained very hard and he’s looking good.
“We haven’t had any concrete details on the bout but we’re looking forward to it.”
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20/11/2006
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UNBEATEN Gus Robinson star Paul Buchanan has put pen to paper on a contract extension at the Stranton House Gym.
Buchanan joined Gus’s team in 2004 and has clocked up four wins and a draw in his spell in Hartlepool.
A multi-decorated junior fighter, the quietly-spoken Geordie is making smooth progress in the British middleweight rankings and coach Peter Cope has high hopes he can get into title contention in 2007.
Buchanan, whose elder brother Andrew is also a pro boxer in the Robinson camp, will be hoping for better luck next year.
In September 2005, Paul had been matched with the Ukraine’s Andrey Kuvatov for the International Boxing Federation's Junior inter-continental middleweight. However, the fight in Dnipropetrovsk was called off after Paul suffered an injury in his last sparring session before leaving England.
Another big-time fight fell through in April this year when Manchester’s Wayne Pinder withdrew from their title eliminator at the Borough Hall, the 28-year-old blaming an ankle injury.
It promised to be an absolute cracker after the pair had fought out an entertaining draw at Liverpool Olympia in November 2005.
Referee Keith Garner had them level at 58-58 although media representatives at ringside, including Sky Sports expert Glenn McCrory, Bob Mee of Boxing News and the Hartlepool Mail’s Roy Kelly all felt Buchanan should have been given the decision.
Neither fighter has boxed since though the Robinson camp hope a good win for Paul could get him in the championship queue.
“He had a title eliminator which would have given him an opportunity to stake his claim,” said coach Cope.
“That fight was off through no fault of Paul’s and it has been frustrating. Hopefully, one win could get him back on course.
“I think 2007 will be the year Paul makes his breakthrough. He’s a winner and certainly top 10 material.
“Middleweight is a strong division, but he has the talent and dedication to make it.”
The vacant British middleweight championship contest between 35-year-old Londoners Richard Williams and Howard Eastman is due to take place at the York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday, December 15
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16/11/2006
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GUS Robinson boxer Nigel Wright is looking forward to more title action in the New Year after a successful second defence of his English light welterweight championship.
Wright outpointed Stoke-on-Trent’s Gary Reid in Glasgow over 10 rounds at the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow.
The talented 27-year-old champ is desperate to get back in with British title holder Lenny Daws in a bid to avenge his defeat in London last May.
But trainer Peter Cope said the Gus Robinson team would keep an open mind.
“Nigel wants title fights,” said Cope. “If Sports Network came to us with an eight-rounder or something like that, then fine, but Nigel is now a 10 or 12 round championship fighter and a contest of that nature would be our preferred intention.
“Of course, Nigel wants to fight Lenny and that is only natural. He is desperate to prove himself and become the British champion.
“But we’ll have to wait and see what happens. Lenny’s title defence last month was postponed so it may be a while before an opportunity comes.
“Nigel boxed very very well up in Glasgow.
“It was his first fight after losing to Daws and it was a hard bout because of the danger Reid threatened.
“But Nigel boxed superbly, keeping it long, just as we had trained in the gym.
“He was nice and relaxed and he did a boxing job instead of thinking he had to go in and knock him out.”
Referee Victor Loughlin scored the fight 98-94, although several pundits felt Wright had not lost a round.
Wright hardly missed with a shot all night and was delighted with his display.
“No disrespect to Gary, but it was quite an easy night,” said the southpaw.
“I love a tear-up, but when I can box and win like that, there was no need to get involved.
“I learned a lot from the fight with Lenny. I was a bit embarrassed by the defeat, but I’m back now.
“I’ve fought, I’ve won and I’ve moved on.”
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02/11/2006
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NIGEL Wright plans to use brain rather than brawn to keep hold of his English light-welterweight championship.
The 27-year-old title holder has a very awkward second defence on Saturday night when he meets Gary Reid of Stoke at Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall.
At first glance, Reid may not have a record to strike fear into a rival. But the 33-year-old is a fighter who is certainly improving with age and he can dish out a heavy shot.
Reid has won three in a row and the last two by stoppage.
Wright though hopes his boxing skill will be the key to victory.
“Gary’s a big puncher, but there again, so am I,” said the Gus Robinson-managed southpaw.
“But the plan is to outbox him and keep it at long range. I’ll outbox him for the full 10 rounds if I have to.
“Perhaps he may tire and I may get a late stoppage, but the tactics will be to box and win.
“Anything else would be a bonus.”
Wright has often been dragged into a fight but this mature outlook will please bos Gus Robinson and coach Peter Cope.
Reid not only has a punch, he has hunger and confidence and the three brought together makes him a dangerous foe.
Speaking on britishboxing.net, the Jamaican-born light-welterweight said: “I've never trained so hard for a fight before and I know that it's paying off so I will be ready for him.
“I'm feeling very excited, it's the biggest fight of my career to date and I know that winning it will open lots of doors for me, I can't wait to get at Nigel Wright now.”
The fight is set for 10 rounds and will be refereed by Paisley’s Victor Loughlin, who was the ‘third man’ when Wright outpointed Alan Bosworth in his first defence at Spennymoor Leisure Centre in May, 2005.
Wright’s good friend, Scotland’s Alex Arthur, defends his European super-featherweight crown on the show which is televised by ITV4 from 9.30pm on Saturday.
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23/10/2006
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NIGEL Wright gets back down to title business next
week with the second defence of his English
championship.
Wright, the holder of the English light-welterweight
belt since early 2005, will meet Stoke's Gary Reid in
Glasgow on Saturday, November 4.
It will be the Gus Robinson fighter's first bout since
an unsuccessful challenge for the vacant British title
in May.
Defeat by Londoner Lenny Daws at the York Hall hurt
the County Durham southpaw's pride and he insisted
when he did return he wanted it to be a meaningful
fight.
And now, two months after the bout was proposed,
Wright can now look forward to pulling on his gloves
again.
Certainly a 10-rounder with Reid fits the bill - even
if the English crown is being fought out in Scotland.
Reid is going to prove a tough obstacle for Wright to
clear.
The early part of the 33-year-old's career was
littered with defeats and he was stopped in Seaton
Carew a few years back by Kevin Bennett (Nigel's old
amateur adversary).
Now Reid is something of a resurgent figure in boxing
and carries a heavy punch.
"Nigel should win, but it's a dangerous fight,"
explained coach Peter Cope. Gary can punch and has had
a few good lads down."
The famous Kelvin Hall is the location for the contest
and Wright's promoter, Frank Warren, puts on the show
which is headlined by Nigel's good friend, Alex
Arthur. ITV televise the event.
Wright's fight will be refereed by Scottish official
Victor Loughlin. The Paisley ref was in charge of
Nigel's maiden defence in May 2005, a 10-round points
verdict over rugged veteran Alan Bosworth in
Spennymoor.
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14/08/2006
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NIGEL Wright is to meet another big-punching
light-welterweight in the second defence of his
English title.
Wright, managed by Gus Robinson, had expected to be
coming face to face with Young Muttley of West
Bromwich next month, only for that bout to come a
cropper.
Now though, Stoke's Gary Reid has been accepted by the
British Boxing Board of Control as the next challenger
for the 27-year-old champion.
The BBBC this week announced that interested promoters
have until noon on September 13 to submit purse bids.
Reid, 33, has lost more than he has won, but is a
fighter who is improving with age and carries a heavy
punch. He has won his last three outings and boasts 12
victories in 27 bouts.
The news of a first title defence since May 2005 is
just what the Wright camp had been looking for.
Gus Robinson, in talks with Nigel's promoters, Sports
Network, had asked that his ring return would be a
title affair.
"When we spoke to Nigel after he came back from his
summer holiday, he said he did not want six or eight
rounders," said the Costa Blanca Homes boss.
"Nigel is ambitious and all he was interested in as
championship contests."
Wright, who has not boxed since losing to Lenny Daws
in London in May in a tilt at the vacant British
crown, is thrilled to be fighting again.
"I can't wait to get back in," said the hard-hitting
southpaw from Co Durham.
"I just wanted a title fight. I don't want to take
anything away from Lenny, who is a worthy British
champion, but that was not the real me at the York
Hall that night.
"I know there are a lot of people queuing up for
Lenny, but I want to get back in with him as soon as
possible. But I have to defend my English title
successfully first.
"Gary Reid is a stocky little banger, who has really
turned his career around and had some good wins of
late. I will make sure I'm in tip-top condition for
this.
"I've been in training for a while expecting to fight
Young Muttley next month.
"I'll make sure I keep ticking over and when a date is
set I can really step it up."
Reid, who won the British Masters title by stopping an
old Wright foe, Kevin McIntyre, is not fazed at the
prospect of meeting Nigel.
"Nigel Wright is a great boxer and I won't
underestimate him but I know that I am capable of
beating him," he told Britishboxing.net.
"I am in the best condition of my life both physically
and mentally and at Impact Boxing I now have the best
management and training that I've ever had in boxing.
"I am confident that the team there will get behind me
and give me the best chance possible."
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