Pro debut worth the wait for Eko

Photo: Darren Robinson

ON THE ATTACK . . . Joe Eko (left) lands a left hand on Kristian Laight

ROYTON'S Joe Eko made a huge impression on his professional boxing debut at the Oldham Leisure Centre at the weekend.

Super-lightweight prospect Eko (24) made giant strides in the amateur ranks, but when Middleton-based trainer Ben Lancaster urged him to consider switching to the paid ranks, there was little hesitation.

That ambition came true on Saturday, with his home-town fans looking on impressed as Eko bagged a 40 points to 36 points verdict against tough journeyman Kristian 'Mr Reliable' Laight.

Reflecting on the night as a whole, Eko said: "I absolutely loved it ­- that night had been a long time coming.

"I've been waiting quite a while to turn pro, but now it's turned into reality it felt great.

"It almost felt surreal in the ring on Saturday, but we've got the first one out of the way now and I can't wait for next time now."

It was a terrific first test for Eko, who looked sharp and composed throughout the four rounds against the hugely respected Laight.

Eko added: "When I knew I was fighting Kristian I knew it would be difficult.

"He's been around and he's fought some top kids. He's very rarely been stopped, so Ben told me beforehand not to gas myself out early on in the fight.

"I went in there, used my boxing skills with fast hands and fast feet, and it paid off on the night.

"I was a little nervous. I used to get nervous before my amateur fights, but I hadn't felt that all week in the run-up to the fight.

"It was just on the Saturday during the day I felt it a bit, but once I got in the ring I just let it flow a little bit and I felt great.

"I was just thinking to myself 'it's not that difficult this', and it just flowed after that.

"Ben was pleased with me. It was a bit scrappy in the final round when I took a few stupid shots, but I still won all the rounds so I can't really complain. I got the win and that's what it's all about."

Eko hopes to get the call to feature on another VIP Promotions show next month.

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