Shaw brothers Jack and Thomas aim to take Bowlers by storm

Shaw boxing brothers Jack and Thomas Rafferty are pictured with their Dad, Dave. Image courtesy of Karen Priestley Boxing Photography

Shaw boxing brothers Jack and Thomas Rafferty plan to show they they’re top talent again when they appear together on Pat Barrett’s Black Flash Promotions event at Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Manchester this Saturday.

Jack Rafferty will box in the most important contest he’s yet faced as he fights Rotherham’s Lee Appleyard for the Commonwealth Super Lightweight title in a bout that is also a British title eliminator.

"This is the fight I’ve worked towards as a boxer this past 15 years," said Jack, "and winning would mean access to national and eventually world title bouts at large venues like Manchester Arena.

"That's what every boxer wants, and now it’s in my grasp."

The brothers train at ‘The Finest Boxing Gym’ in Ancoats coached by Steve Maylett and Joe Eko.

Thomas is managed by Steve Barrett and Jack by London 2012 GB Boxing chief coach Tom Stalker.  

Known as ‘The Demolition Man’ and undefeated in 21 bouts since his professional career started in 2017 with knock out wins in well over half his fights, 28-year-old Jack is currently ranked 16th out of 111 super lightweight British boxers.

Father of two small boys, brother Thomas, 26, will be defending his undefeated record in nine professional bouts at middleweight, including three by stoppage.

Starting his professional career in Autumn 2021, the Bowler’s contest is his fourth six rounder.

"‘Winning my 10th fight would set me up nicely for area titles in what I intend to be a busy 2024, with hopefully eight or even ten rounders against highly challenging opponents," said Thomas.

Father and Oldham businessman Dave Rafferty is his sons’ top fan, commending them for being "two talented and fearless boxers but also clean-living men who are strong role models and excellent ambassadors for the sport they love. No father could ask for more."

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