Debut Corner with light-heavyweight Ollie Pattison
Light-heavyweight Londoner, Ollie Pattison is today's subject of discussion in Debut Corner.
Somehow, his model-type looks have stayed intact throughout a lengthy and decorated amateur career boxing for Finchley ABC that saw him lift trophies in three different countries.
The Steve Goodwin promoted debutant makes his pro bow on Independence Day on a card that boasts over 20 scheduled fights sharing the bill with top talents such as Chris Evangelou, Freddie Turner and former footballer, Leon McKenzie.
Here's what the 25-year-old prospect had to say…
What made you want to start boxing? “I started boxing because my dad and granddad were boxers, my dad is now my professional coach.”
Who was your boxing hero growing up and why? “My boxing heroes were Tommy Hearns and Jake LaMotta. Hearns because of his style, he was tall like me and had such explosive speed and power, I loved studying him, and LaMotta because his heart and just how tough the man really was.”
How old were you when you had your first fight and how did you do? “I was about 13 and I won on points.”
How well did you do in the amateurs? “I was 2 x London ABA Champion, 2 x International Box Cup Gold Medalist, CYP Semi Finalist, National Junior ABA Finalist, and gained a Silver and Bronze medal in international tournaments in Portugal and Denmark.”
What made you decide to turn pro? “I've boxed for a long time as an amateur, boxing against some of the best fighters in the UK and also the world. So was the right time to test myself as a pro.”
What team do you have around you? “I have a great team, I have, of course, my dad who knows me better than anyone, I have Kevin Campion who really knows his boxing and has been in the likes of George Groves, BJS and Eubank Jr's corner. I'm also promoted by Goodwin Promotions, who are fantastic.”
What sort of fighting style do you have? “I'm 6 3" so always been quite tall but now I've filled out with age I’m an all-round better fighter as not only can I box and counter punch but I can also mix it on the inside if I need to, I prefer to box though.”
What ambitions do you have for your pro career? “I want to, of course, go all the way and win a world title but I'm under no illusions how tough this sport is and I want to take things step-by-step hopefully fighting for titles soon though.”
When is your first fight and who will be there in support? “My pro debut is 4th July at York Hall in Bethnal Green, all my friends and family will be there and hopefully people who enjoy watching me box will come to support to!”
Any message for the fans? “Just to say to them that if they enjoyed seeing me as an amateur then come down to Bethnal green on 4th July as I'll be putting in a great performance and display for the fans. Also I’ll be sticking around after the fight so come over and say ‘hi’, always nice to meet new people and also listen to any advice they may have.”
For tickets to the debut fight please call: 07768 013963 / 07539 181362