Local boxer fights for international belt in home town

LOCAL boxer, Ryan Wheeler sets his sights on the international super featherweight challenge belt as he takes on Martinez of Spain in his hometown of Frome on Friday 2nd March.

Speaking to Frome Times, Ryan said, “This will be the second time I have boxed in my home town. The first time was in June last year and for me it felt special, almost like I was fighting for a title. Now, I really am returning to Frome for a title shot.  The support has been incredibly overwhelming.

“In my head I know I have to forget about the hundreds coming to support me and focus on winning the fight. I already feel the added pressure of fighting in my home town, but this keeps me motivated in training. But, definitely towards the end of the fight as I start to get tired, the atmosphere will help push me through.”

Ryan’s opponent, Martinez of Spain will be fighting in the UK for the first time, having kept his career firmly in his home country. His previous results have shown a mixture of wins, losses and draws, with his last loss being over a year ago.

When asked about his opponent, Ryan said, “I don’t spend too much time studying my opponent. I’d rather concentrate on being the best I can be. My training team will study him and we will work out a game plan together, but from what I’ve seen, Martinez is a strong and very tough fighter. I’m sure he is also determined to take this title back home to Spain.

“After enjoying a Christmas break, I’ve jumped in at the deep end, getting straight back into my full training routine, travelling from Frome to Bristol and Swindon several times a week for sparring. I am down at The Trainstation Gym  every day throughout the week. Also, I have joined Frome’s Paul Ryman to work on my strength and conditioning. At weekends, I like to head over to Parkrun, so I’m getting a good mix of training throughout the week.

“I would also like to mention my massive appreciation to everybody who has ever come to support me! It is because of the immense support I receive that I am able to stay so focused for training.

“If I win this belt, it’s for the people of Frome supporting me. A final big shout our to my amazing sponsors who support me financially so I am able to dedicate 100% of my time to boxing and becoming the best possible athlete: Piling Equipment Ltd, Quickprint MSN, Crew barbers, Postlebury Car & Commercial Recovery Ltd, Trainstation Gym, Rodden Road Cars, LAC Carpentry, Steeldoorsales, The Old Bath Arms Frome, Albright & Shiny, Paul Ryman Fitness, Paul bailes Independent Funeral celebrant, R.M.C the complete building service, JOT Flooring.”

The event will take place at Frome’s Cheese and Grain. Doors open at 7.30 with boxing starting at 8pm. VIP tables are £65 per person and unreserved seating £35. It is likely to be a sold out crowd, so contact Ryan on 07518 866425 for tickets to avoid disappointment. Ryan’s event is preceeded with a full under card.