Teenage prodigy makes Civic bow
Walsall's teenage prodigy Joel Ryan makes his professional boxing debut at Wolverhampton Civic Hall with his best years firmly in front of him.
The youngster steps into the ring at just 18 years old next Friday night, making his debut at light-middleweight.
Ryan spent his earlier teenage years as an amateur at the Walsall Wood ABC club in his hometown, before walking into the gym where the big guns in the West Midlands play - the famed Wednesbury Boxing Gym.
The teenager has spent the past year progressing under the watchful eye of respected local trainer Errol Johnson, while being able to take tips from the likes of one of the most successful currently active boxers from Walsall - former English champion Martin Gethin.
Now Ryan himself is ready to follow in some illustrious footsteps.
He said: "I first went to Errol's gym a year ago and training has gone very well since then, I have learned a lot. Recently he urged me to turn professional and, well, here we are. I've always wanted to and when he said I was good enough, I just went for it.
"I have a few butterflies with the big night coming up, but they will soon be gone when I get in there. The Civic is a great venue, so make my debut there is going to be great. To be boxing at the Civic aged 18 is really something.
"I know I am very young, so I am going to be taking my career one step at a time. There is no rush, if I make natural steps and take it at my own pace, there is reason I can't have a very long time in the sport."
To be for Ryan's big night, contact the box office on 0870 320 7000 or promoter Paul 'PJ' Rowson on 07976 283 157.
