Ruben Campbell is prepared to take on all comers after getting the ring rust off with his third pro boxing contest.
His absence from action ends on BCB Promotions’ next show in Wolverhampton, at the Hangar Events Venue (Pearson Street), on the Sunday afternoon of December 12.
It’s been over two years since the 31-year-old welterweight last took part in a competitive contest, where he outpointed Ibrar Riyaz.
Campbell was put through his paces by the experienced journeyman, but got over the line with his hand raised through a 39-38 scoreline.
That built upon a successful debut, where he saw off left-hander Matt ‘MJ’ Hall through a 40-38 points verdict, battling through a slow start.
The second-generation paid pugilist is the son of Ray ‘Raza’ Campbell, who racked up three outings himself, as a super lightweight, between 1991 and 1992.
His son will emulate that level of pro experience next time out and then plans to go after the top prospects, away from home if necessary.
He has changed coaches, too, having made the switch from Shaun Cooper to Richard Ghent with another ex-pro, Robert Wright, also in the corner.
Campbell said: “My career has gone a bit pear-shaped, like a lot of other fighters, in waiting to box again after the pandemic. I’m 31 now, so it might be now or never, for me to push on.
I did manage to tick over with my fitness, all of the way through it. I kept up my running, I’ve got a cross-trainer at home and a punch bag.
“Nothing replaces being in the ring, though, and I can’t tell how much I’m looking forward to fight night. Two years out is a long time and I need to blow the cobwebs off.
“I’ve changed gyms, I’m with Richie (Ghent, coach, RG Box Fit in Bilston, Wolverhampton) now and I’m surrounded by other pros, so the sparring is totally different.
“It’s a funny one when I go in with Traian Tudosache, because he’s the only one that’s ever beaten me, back in white collar (unlicensed) days! We get along and help each other out.
“All my coach tells me to do is keep my jab long, which I think is my best weapon, and the rest will fall into place. I’ve been rough and raw, but I’ve come on a lot.
“I’m not going to lie, I want to make some money out of boxing, so I buy a house, or enough to get myself a mortgage. To do that, I’ll fight anyone.
“I’m not punch drunk, because I haven’t really been in that many wars, so I feel like I’ve got a lot left in the tank. I’ve just got to get some more wins under my belt.
“When we get that phone call, offering me a chance against one of the top lads, I’ll be ready. I’ll be staying fit and strong, now and after this fight.”
Tickets for the Hangar bill are available, priced at £40 standard or £80 VIP ringside with buffet, directly from the boxers or by visiting myfighttickets.com.
