Heffron lines up Mersey mission

PACKING A PUNCH . . . Ronnie Heffron is impressing during training for his second professional fight.

Classy Connor is closing in on ABA crown

BOXING: OLDHAM welterweight Ronnie Heffron returns to the ring on March 12 after a successful debut in the professional ranks.

‘The Razor’ is on the undercard to the British super-middleweight title bout between Paul Smith, the champion, and challenger Tony Dodson at the Echo Arena, Liverpool.

Heffron, whose opponent has yet to be decided, made the perfect start to his paid career when he comfortably disposed of journeyman Chris Brophy in Newcastle.

The 19-year-old senior ABA belt holder was too strong for the Swansea fighter, who was retired by his corner at the end of the second round.

Heffron, a member of the Frank Warren stable of boxers, has come in for high praise since turning pro.

The teenager’s work ethic and general skill level has impressed his trainer, former WBU middleweight champion Anthony Farnell, who believes he can go right to the very top of the sport.




OLDHAM’S Robbie Connor showed his tactical skill and boxing ability is developing at a rate of knots when he outpointed the more experienced Lee Jenkins of Liverpool in the semi-final of the ABA senior novice 75kg Class A championship.



Victory earned the Oldham Boxing and Personal Development Centre fighter a place in the final in Nottingham on Sunday.

The novice championships are aimed at boxers who have had less than 20 bouts and, in defeating Jenkins, Connor put a marker down for his final against Billy Elder of the Royal Navy.

Connor again had to change his style in order to overcome an equally-skilful opponent.

The bout was like a chess match at times with both boxers attempting to nullify each other’s style.

In reaching the final in his first season of competition, Connor has underlined his potential and dedication.

His efforts also emphasise the influence of the new Oldham club which has a team of athletes ready to make their mark.