Newell predicts final tear-up

JOHN Newell: explosive final

BOXING: JOHN Newell anticipates an explosive junior ABA national final against London’s Archie Hutchings on Sunday.

The Oldham fighter expects the two 17-year-olds to be a close match in the 75kg category at Medway Valley Leisure Park, Kent, as both enjoy being on the front foot.

“I always prefer to face someone who comes for a proper fight and really goes for it,” said John.

“It is entertaining for the crowd and we can both give it a go.”

Dad Tony says his son could not have done any more in the build-up to his title defence.

He said: “The last couple of weeks could not have gone better.

“John was bang on the weight when it was checked in midweek, and now he is chomping at the bit.

“We know Hutchings is a 100mph kind of fighter. He likes big hooks and will try to drop a bomb.

“But as John has said, that suits him down to the ground. He would much rather take on someone like that than a guy who stands back.

“John had a small session with trainer Sean Rafferty last night at Shannon and Ancoats gym, but there will be nothing now until the day of the fight, when they will do a bit of pad work.

“The closer you get to the fight, the more important it becomes to relax. All the hard work has already been done.

“John and Sean have concentrated on his endurance and speed, and some combinations, although they have come along nicely as the tournament has worn on.

“His combinations have caused opponents big problems. Now he is ready for one last push.”

Tony waxed lyrical about the efforts of trainer Rafferty.

“I can’t praise Sean highly enough,” he added. “The experience he passes on is priceless.”