Burton Crushes Tzonev In Bolton Pro Debut

The hammer was thrown and its target was destroyed. Hosea “The Hammer” Burton’s professional debut for Coldwell Boxing yesterday in Bolton, proved to be a resounding success.

“I’m pleased. Everything went to plan. I wasn’t looking to impress anyone. I just wanted to go in there and get the win,” said Burton.

With a strong amateur pedigree behind him and training amongst champions, contenders and prospects under the tutelage of Joe Gallagher the hype machine was already in motion prior to the 24-year old’s fight yesterday.

His opponent Viktor Tzonev only lasted two and a half minutes in Burton’s company after being stung by jabs and then taken apart by “The Hammer”, a shot that was already being developed during Burton’s camp and a punch that stable mate Paul Smith discussed with promoter David Coldwell beforehand saying, “Wait till you see see his right hand.”

“I threw a jab that stung him,” said Burton. “His eyes started blinking and after I hit him with a right to the body I knew he was a sucker for the right hand. In the gym we’d be working on a right hand, jab, jab then another right hand. And when I heard Joe shout “now” I threw it and he went down.”

With the monkey off his back, the likeable Mancunian can now look forward to his second fight next month at the Echo Arena in Liverpool as part of ‘The Big Bang’, a bill headlined by the British light heavyweight title clash between Tony Bellew and Danny McIntosh.

“I can’t wait for that. Even if I hadn’t been fighting I’d be there as a fan,” Burton confessed. “I’m hoping my next opponent comes to fight me a bit. I stamped my authority on that guy yesterday and if I get the same result in Liverpool then so be it.”

And despite admitting to some expectant pre-fight nerves, Burton was thrilled to not only get in the ring but to also not be wearing a headguard for the first time.

“I could see every shot coming! What a difference it made not having to wear one. It does restrict your head movement a bit.”

Whilst remaining cautious about his charge’s future, promoter David Coldwell was ecstatic about the performance.

“I am absolutely over the moon. He’s a fantastic prospect and he’s in a great camp with a coach who loves the game. He’s training amongst people that will inspire him. I’m excited about being his promoter and excited about his future.”

Highlights from yesterday’s bill will be shown on ‘Ringside’ on Sky Sports 1 HD on Thursday at 6pm, be sure to check “The Hammer” out.

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