Young person that came through Empire programme to make his professional boxing debut

How do you feel about your debut?

It’s been a long time leading up to it, I’m excited for the occasion and  to show my skills in front of so many people.

For you it’s been a long road…when did you first come to Empire and why were you referred?

I first came to Empire at 14 years old, I’m now 20. I was referred due to struggles at home and with my mental health, but found a passion for boxing which gave me a path to follow.

What was that young boy that started here like?

He was very anxious, he didn’t know what he wanted from life, and lost, but luckily that all would change.

How did Empire help him?

It showed me I can be more than what I thought possible.

I never thought I could be anything, but it showed me I can push past what I thought I was capable of and then keep going. Empire gave me hope that I could be something special.

What changes were there?

There were massive changes in my confidence and outlook on life, all of a sudden I felt like I had something to live for, a real purpose.

How did boxing and Competing as an amateur help you?

Amateur boxing was great as it gave me constant goals to work towards, winning fights, titles, and boxing all over the country. It gave me a lifetime of memories.

You now also coach for the charity that helped you….how is that for you?

It’s definitely a special feeling, the fact I get to tell young people I work with on a 121 basis, that once upon a time I was in their position. It's such a cool thing, and helps me to relate to them and I can sense what they are feeling, as I felt it once too.

Did you ever think you would make it as a professional fighter?

From the first day I walked into the gym that was the goal I had, and I never doubted for a single second I would do it. Deep down I always felt I was special, I just needed the chance to prove it.

What advice would you give to the younger you? And to kids today that want to make it in boxing?

Learn, and don’t stop learning! And never think you know it all and stay humble. Always remember your time will come, never try rush the process, it takes time. Take every opportunity presented to you and stand out, be different, as it's that which will separate you from the rest.

Not all kids that come to our non-contact boxing programmes go onto box…so what do they get from it?

Every young person gets something different out of the programme, whether that be a sense of belonging, a sport they enjoy, or even just giving them someone to talk to for 45 mins, it all holds a place in the young person’s heart.

On your pro career…. what do you want to achieve?

I’m in this for one thing and one thing only, to be a world champion! That’s what I want and have always wanted.

Who has helped you get there most?

Darren Hamilton has shaped a massive part of my boxing story over the last year and changed my outlook on things, made me believe in myself again, i would say he has definitely had the biggest impact on my career.

 Will you win on the night?

“That’s what we’re aiming for!”

And what’s next after….?

I can’t look passed Saturday night, but just know whatever I do next will be big.

Good luck Matt - we are all behind you! You are an embodiment and testimony of the Empire Pathway, a role model to every young person that walks through the door of what is possible.

For the lucky few that's winning in the ring, but for most that's winning in the classroom and winning in life.

To attend to the Sanigar Events Show on Saturday 22nd March, click BOOK TICKETS.