Ronnie roars to first round win

Photo: Stephen Speed

RONNIE Heffron celebrates his first round knockout of Wayne Downing with trainer Anthony Farnell.

BOXING: RAZOR-SHARP Ronnie Heffron waltzed to a first-round knockout win over Wayne Downing at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.

The 20-year-old made it four victories in a row since turning professional last year by flooring his opponent after just 45 seconds with a powerful right hand blow to the head.

Heffron, a member of Anthony Farnell's stable, produced the devastating display despite having to wait until 1am to enter the ring.

He was due to fight before 10pm, but when headline bout Matthew Macklin v Ruben Varon went the

distance, Sky Television bosses shifted the Oldham star's clash to a later slot in order to ensure it received live coverage.

Heffron said: "I am buzzing because it feels like my hard work in training has paid off.

"I stepped it up for this one because I wanted to continue the winning run, and I have come away without a mark on me.

"I got him with a body shot first, and then a straight right finished it.

"Around 200 fans from Oldham came to watch me, and I am very grateful because they make a difference."

Festive celebrations won't distract Heffron from his time in the gym - he is teetotal.

"I will still be going out, but I don't drink and never have done, so it isn't even a temptation," he added.

Trainer Farnell was delighted with the performance of his young charge.

He said: "As soon as he walked in to the arena I had a good feeling, because he looked so calm and confident.

"It was brilliant to see so many people buying tickets to watch him as well.

“He has only had a few fights as a professional, but it is amazing what word of mouth can achieve.

"He had to wait a few hours because of the Macklin fight, but it didn't bother him.

"It was a shame for some of the supporters, because they had a coach back to Oldham booked for 10.30pm, but unfortunately these things happen sometimes.

"Ronnie was fantastic. He had a swagger about him, and didn't get hit once - that's the dream scenario.

"We will see if we can get one more fight in this month.

“If not, I am sure it will be early in 2011."