Oxford boxer Bradley Townsend previews MECA Swindon fight

BRADLEY Townsend says he cannot wait to show his new and improved style after switching up his coaching set-up during lockdown.

The fighter, who was born in Oxford, has a perfect record of 8-0 as a professional, as he looks ahead to his ring return next month.

The 26-year-old will feature on Neilson Boxing’s show on Saturday, September 18 in Swindon, as he faces Faheem Khan, 14-11-2, in a final eliminator for the southern area welterweight title.

During lockdown Townsend split with his long-term coach, Paddy Fitzpatrick after the Irishman opted to retire from the sport.

However, after linking-up with new trainer Robert Lloyd Taylor, the unbeaten prospect he feels he has improved as a fighter since his last outing in 2019.

“When Paddy announced his retirement it was a little bit of a shock but he guided me in the right direction,” he said.

“Since I started with Robert it has been great, we get on really well, he has a really good gym and he has great contacts.

“I’m more excited to fight now than I was 18 months ago.

“I can’t wait to get back in, I’ve got a new coach and I’ve developed as a fighter too.

“We’ve been working on my power. Robert wants me to trade punches a lot more and I feel a difference myself, I’m sitting in my shots more so I should produce a much better performance when it comes to power and strength.

“Usually I’m moving around a lot in my fights, but this time I am looking to do some damage.”

Townsend is a regular feature on Neilson Boxing shows, appearing five times in his eight-bout career and promoter Mark Neilson says he is looking forward to watching the fighter face Khan.

“The welterweight division is a really congested division domestically,” explained Neilson.

“Faheem is very experienced, he’s had nearly 30 fights and Bradley is only 8-0 but he’s a really slick mover – he doesn’t punch a massive amount but he’s in with a durable opponent.

“I think it will be a really skilful 10-round fight and it is great support to the main event, which is former Commonwealth champion Luke Watkins.”

The show is set to take place on September 18 at the MECA in Swindon.

For further information visit neilsonboxing.co.uk.

https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/19504599.oxford-boxer-bradley-townsend-previews-meca-swindon-fight/