A COCKFIELD boxer is training hard for his first professional fight next month at Rainton Arena, eight years after making his debut as an amateur.
Turning professional was a goal Nathan Forrest had when he took up boxing as a teenager.
After years of training and sparring with Barnard Castle Amateur Boxing Club the 23-year-old achieved his dream, turning pro in March.
He said: “I was in and out of gyms when I was young and I had my first amateur bout in my last year of school when I was 15 or 16 years old.
“Turning pro was always something that we talked about and it was a goal to drive me and I have always wanted to achieve that. In March I felt it was time.”
Since turning professional he has been getting in shape ready for his first fight, which takes place on Saturday, August 27 at Rainton Arena, training three days a week with renowned pro coach Neil Fannan at Hartlepool.
He added: “He [Neil Fannan] is a good trainer with experience and he coaches Thomas Ward, the British, IBF European and NABA Champion.
“He was in two minds about whether to take me on. I told him I was prepared to make sacrifices. I know he could see the potential I see in myself.”
“The biggest sacrifice is finishing work at 2pm means I’m losing out earning, which is difficult when I’m driving through to Hartlepool three times a week with the fuel costs.
“I’ve got a few sponsors Jackson Skips, Atlas and the Cricketers Arms and I have to thank them for supporting me.”
As well as training in the gym he is building stamina by running every morning before setting off for work at a commercial vehicle sales company in Bishop Auckland.
He added: “I love going for a run on the fell. I get up there and just relax.
“I’m normally get out for a run at 6am before work. Most days it’s just two training sessions a day but I still pop in to Barney’s boxing club as well for a work out.
“It’s hard but I knew it would be. I’ll be boxing as super lightweight, which is 10 stone and I’m confident I can make the weight. Although I’m still finding my feet I am looking forward to the fight.”
