Boxer hands over free tickets to young hopeful

Unbeaten light-middleweight Aarron Morgan took time out from his hectic training schedule to pay a special visit to Islington Boxing Club recently.

The Hazellville Road club is a place that holds fond memories for the fighter, as it was where he achieved success as National Novice Champion and even became the captain of the club.

And the man who is known as ‘The Marksman’ was at the club to present 13-year-old Islington Boxing Club Junior Competitive Squad member Harry Betteridge with a pair of tickets to see his next bout on Saturday May 20.

The tickets were given as a reward to young Betteridge for his exemplary behaviour and unyielding commitment to his craft which ensures the young fighter rarely misses a training session.

After taking part in seven skills contests, Betteridge is soon to transition into competitive amateur boxing and said: “It will be my first ever professional boxing show. I’m really looking forward to it along with my Dad”.

Morgan is still heavily involved at the club as a Senior Academy and Recreational Coach, while also heading ‘Fight Club’ sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and added: “It was an honour and a pleasure to bring a smile to this young man’s face!

“Harry is a polite and well mannered boy with a work ethic well beyond his years. Keep focused, keep working and I have no doubt I’ll be calling you champion in a few years, Harry!”

Morgan is set for his 13th contest in the professional ranks when he faces Joe Bigford on the undercard of the Liam Walsh-Gervonta Davis IBF super-featherweight title fight at the Copper Box Arena on May 20.

And he paid tribute to Islington for helping him on the path to what he hopes will be a British title shot later this year.

“Walking through the doors of the club will forever be one of the most defining choices I have made in my life,” he said.

“I have made memories and friends for life. I’ve experienced the highs of winning and lows of losing, faced obstacles, setbacks and challenges and learned that all can be overcome with the right attitude, support and determination.

“This goes not only for boxing but life itself. No doubt I will be involved for years to come as I have two sons that will no doubt wear the white and red!”

Tickets for Morgan’s May 20 fight are still available at £40 by calling 07950 277601.