Prospect Sonny Upton Thrilled To Be Top Of The Bill

Welterweight prospect Sonny Upton says he’s “buzzing” after being handed an English title eliminator against Northolt’s Ryan Toms.

The Ricky Hatton-trained 26-year-old has been chomping at the bit for a big fight and will box over ten rounds for the first time on Josh Goodwin’s “The Cartel” show at the historic York Hall in Bethnal Green, on November 21.

Toms is sure to be a tough opponent. The Londoner is a former Southern Area champion and goes into the contest on the back of a stunning sixth round stoppage of the previously unbeaten Lloyd Ellett.

“He’s a decent boxer and he’ll definitely be the toughest I’ve faced so far,” Upton said. “I’ve seen him before and I know he’ll come and give his all. He’s a southpaw and I love fighting southpaws. Most boxers hate it, but I know I can deal with them. I haven’t fought many in the pros, but I always boxed well against them in the amateurs.

“This will be my first ten rounder and I can’t wait. I’ve not even done an eight rounder yet, but this couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m buzzing about it and I’m flying in the gym. I’m looking forward to a longer fight because I like to take my time, figure out my opponent and show my supporters the best of me.

Not only will next month’s clash be Upton’s first over ten rounds, it will also be the first time he has topped a bill, and he’s already counting down the days.

He said: “It’s a really big thing for me. I remember when I first turned pro, I used to watch some of the boxers I know topping bills and think ‘that’s where I want to be’. Now I’ve been given the opportunity.

“I plan on making a statement and moving onto that English title shot. Getting a strap around my waist would make me proud and it would be good to see everything paying off for the supporters who spend their hard-earned money coming to watch me and for Ricky and Mike [Jackson], who’ve brought me on leaps and bounds in the gym.”