Ashley Pettigrew continues to master the fundamentals as he targets a hat-trick of pro victories since turning over.
His third outing comes as part of BCB Promotions’ final bill of the year at the Hangar Events Venue, in Wolverhampton, on the Friday night of December 16.
Pettigrew had no amateur experience coming into the pro ranks, instead honing his craft on the unlicensed circuit, where he showed power in 19 bouts, with 14 wins and 10 stoppages.
The 23-year-old welterweight, from the village of Doxey in Stafford, demonstrated his explosive side when turning over, against Sultan Ahmed in June.
Ahmed had blood pouring from his nose by the time the referee intervened, in round two, after Pettigrew successfully targeted the body and head.
His second outing, when he went toe-to-toe with Paul Cummings in October, saw him also go hell for leather before the finish, instead prevailing on points through a 40-36 scoreline.
He’s been back to work since at Stafford’s Fight Factory, under the watchful eye of coach Ant Bailey, with spars aplenty throughout his preparations.
Pettigrew was also an interested spectator for the recent Midlands welterweight title clash between Owen Cooper and Jamie Stewart, a sparring partner. Cooper is the new champion.
Pettigrew said: “I had a week off, after my last fight, and I went on holiday again (to Egypt). I ticked over. There was a gym, at the hotel, so I did some weights and went on the treadmill.
“I was straight back in the gym, when I got home, and I’ve been in camp since we got the fight date so I’ve been sparring, at least, twice a week.
“I train all year round, so nothing changes for me. I just up the intensity. I’ve had some good learning rounds, in sparring, so my technique is coming on.
“I’m still developing a pro style, but I’ve definitely settled down a lot more, since I started, and I adapt to my opponent each time that I’m in there.
“I picked my shots a lot better (against Paul Cummings). I hurt him to the body (through right hands) and he was wobbled (from a left hook) to the head.
“He just soaked it up, so I knew I probably wasn’t going to get him out of there. I’d never done four rounds before, but I pushed the pace and I could have gone on for longer.
“I felt like I looked good against him. He couldn’t really touch me, because of the movement and foot-work that I’d been working on. Hopefully, it will be more of the same this time.
“I’m looking forward to boxing at the Hangar, I’ve been there to watch a show and it’s a great set up. It’s a bit closer to Cannock and Stafford, where my people are coming from, too!”
Tickets for the Hangar bill are available, priced at £40 standard or £75 VIP ringside with buffet, from the BCB Box Office by calling 07493 582 261 or visiting myfighttickets.com.
