Gary Reid Prepares for John Fewkes Showdown

Impact Boxing’s Gary Reid returns to the ring in Doncaster on Friday night for the first of three fights under a new promotional deal with Frank Maloney. Potteries based Reid will face the hitherto undefeated John “Fireball’ Fewkes over 8 rounds on a Sky televised event from Doncaster Dome, the fight being part of the undercard of a British super-featherweight title contest between holder Carl Johanneson and challenger Michael Gomez.

The Glyn Rhodes trained Fewkes, from Sheffield, has won all fifteen of his fights since turning professional in 2004 with 2 of his victories being achieved within the distance. Fewkes most impressive scalp to date was secured in his last fight when he earned a points victory over former European champion Tontcho Tontchev.

Reid most recently went twelve rounds with the World ranked Ajose Olusegun in a Commonwealth light-welterweight bout only to lose the decision on points. Eight of Reid’s thirteen wins have come by way of stoppages and he has consequently earned a reputation as big puncher.

The two men have only one former opponent in common with both achieving points victories over Tony Montana. Reid over ten rounds in 2004 to win the British Masters light-welterweight title and Fewkes over six in 2005.

Reid has been preparing by training at Impact boxing’s gym in Stoke and by sparring with the aforementioned Johanneson in Leeds during which he impressed Frank Maloney with his fitness levels and his technique.

“ I think I proved my fitness and durability last time out against Olusegun,” said Reid today, “and it’s down to the coaching I’ve been getting at Impact together with the support that I’ve had from my sponsors, A-Z Motors. Its because of their help that I’ve been able to train full-time and that’s what’s made the difference to my fitness.”

“I’m grateful to Impact Boxing who have worked tirelessly to get me this opportunity with Frank Maloney and I’m determined to make the most of it; my aim is to be fighting for a British title before my deal with Frank expires.”

“I would also like to thank Frank for giving me the chance to spar with Carl. It’s always good to get top-class sparring before a big fight and you can’t get better than sparring with a British champion. I think the sparring has helped Carl to and I’m sure he’s going to be ready for Gomez on Friday.”

“I always look forward to my next fight but I am particular looking forward to this one. John Fewkes’ style should suit me. He is a come-forward fighter and I am confident that he’ll provide me with the openings to unload my shots. I’m sure he knows my reputation and he will have watched videos of me; I guarantee he isn’t relishing getting into the ring with me.”

“I have produced explosive performances in front of the Sky cameras before and I promise that I’ll do the same on Friday night. I intend to win this one and move on towards my goal.”