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Matty Askin believes new trainer Michael Jennings is the man to take him to the top.
The Blackpool puncher recently linked up with the former British and WBU welterweight champion at his gym in Chorley and already he feels he’s learnt things which will stand him in good stead for the future.
Askin, who is the reigning English cruiserweight champion, will have his first fight under Jennings’ stewardship at the Robin Park Centre in Wigan on December 14.
“I’ve known him for a few years because we trained together at Collyhurst and Moston, so I went down to his new gym and straight away I enjoyed it,” Matty said.
“Mick’s very knowledgeable and he’s been at the highest level, topping the bill at Madison Square Garden against Miguel Cotto. His experience is invaluable and I think he can take me to the next level.
“He knows what fights to take, where I am in my career and he knows about taking the steps needed to become a great fighter. I don’t know what sort of opponent I’ll get in December and I’m not really fussed. I’m just going to go in there and do the things me and Mick have been practising.”
After that December date, Matty is obligated to defend his title against tough Crayford battler Menay Edwards. The fight will go to purse bids on November 13 and take place before the end of February.
As well as retaining the crown he won against China Clarke earlier this year, Matty believes the fight will set him up for a potential shot at the British title.
“I’ve watched a bit of Edwards and he’s a tough kid, who’ll be game. I saw him lose to Dawson, but I think Dawson smothered him,” he said.’
“I’m looking forward to it because it’s given me a nice little plan for next year. If Jon-Lewis Dickinson beats Neil Dawson then I think he’ll vacate the British and go for the European and if Dawson wins then I think he’ll want to defend against me because I’m the only real blemish on his record.
“Tony Conquest got a good win against Wadi Camacho the other week and that’s a fight I’d like as well. Conquest is a great guy and a friend of mine, but it’s business and I’d love to nick his mandatory spot for the British title.”
The December 14 card is promoted in association with Steve Wood’s VIP Promotions and will feature an English super-bantamweight title clash between current champion James “Jazza” Dickens and Josh Wale.
For tickets call 07885 978597.
