Kenney: Colley got me back

Rob Kenney has explained that it was a boxing family member who got him back in the ring after a near nine-year absence.

The Wolverhampton-born light-middleweight originally hung up his gloves at the age of 19 after a decent amateur career but, when his cousin Russell Colley took up the sport, he decided to make a return at the age of 28.

That was two years ago and now, at the age of 30, Kenney is relishing the prospect of joining Colley, who made his professional debut earlier this year, on First Team Promotions' Black Country showcase at the Wolverhampton Civic Hall tomorrow.

He said: "I enjoyed my boxing when I was younger but just drifted away from the sport."

"I had been an amateur for a good few years but then I had my son. Looking after him and earning a living was obviously my main priority.

"Then Russell told me he was taking up the sport and initially, I just went with him to get fit.

"I really enjoyed it and Errol Johnson (First Team's Trainer) asked me if I wanted to go professional with him.

"That was a couple of years ago now and I am glad I did. Because I started later than some boxers did, I think it works in my favour.

"I am more dedicated to boxing now than I was in my younger days."

Kenney has made an unbeaten start to his professional career and, after winning his last half-a-dozen contests, his record now stand at six wins and one draw from his opening seven contests.

His opponent on the card is Leeds slugger Chris Thompson. With Colley also appearing at the Civic Hall, Kenney is hoping that it will be a double delight for the boxing cousins.

He said: "We fought on the same bill at the Civic Hall earlier in the year. We both won, so hopefully that will be the case this time."

"We are both looking forward to the fight. I want to win to keep up my unbeaten record and Russell will be looking to build on his debut win.

"I don't know too much about my opponent but I have been training hard and am ready for the fight."

Tickets for the show are available from the Wolverhampton Civic Hall Box Office on 0870 320 7000 or from 1st Team Promotions' PJ Rowson on 07976 283 157.