One step away

PUNCHING POWER: Ronnie Heffron, pictured against Romanian Ionut Trandafir Ilie,

Boxing: OLDHAM’S Ronnie Heffron is gearing up for a showdown with powerhouse David Barnes in a British title eliminator.

The unbeaten welterweight (21) takes on Barnes — 10 years his senior and twice a British champion — at Bowlers in Manchester on October 12.

“The Razor’s’ Failsworth-based trainer Anthony Farnell knows all about the man standing in the way of the youngster’s push for the big time, having coached Barnes earlier in his career.

“This is, without doubt, the biggest fight of Ronnie’s life,” said Farnell.

“If Ronnie performs the way he has been doing, I am not sure Barnes will be able to handle him.”

Farnell believes Heffron’s fate partially hinges on the level of support he receives on the night.

“It is more important than ever that people come along and give Ronnie their backing, because he thrives on it.”

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