Ryan Woolridge loves the Bescot Stadium, the ground that he spends a lot of time at watching Walsall FC, and he will be boxing there for the second time in three months on BCB’s ‘Rising Stars’ show on February 24th.
“I am absolutely buzzing,” said Woolridge. A lad boxing at his football club, whether it’s Walsall, Villa Park, or The Etihad, to that individual, it’s their MGM Grand. It doesn’t get any better than being here for me.
The 23-year-old from Bloxwich has a perfect record as a professional, eight fights eight wins and could be in line for a title fight this year. The full-time electrician trains under the watchful eye of his former amateur coach, Pete Hickenbottom, at Great Wyrley ABC.
The duo have had an excellent start to life in the paid ranks and know Ryan is entering an important phase in his career. A rangy, southpaw super welterweight, he was last in action in December when he faced experienced Romanian Octavian Gratii, beating him on points over six rounds.
“Looking back at my last fight, it was very awkward, 6ft1 vs 5ft6 it was always going to be a pain punching down! Gratii was slick and knew his way around; it made him hard to hit. For that fight, I set a couple of tasks to complete, and me and Pete ticked those off. But there is still plenty to work on. I need to be a bit more alert; keeping my concentration is something I am looking to get better at.
“My dream belt is the IBO world title; I have always loved them, but any belt will do for now. I think for my development, hopefully we will get an eight-rounder; if not for this fight, then the next before the step up to championship distance. As a team, me and Pete will be ready this year. We aren’t looking to cut corners or pass anything, but any opportunities, depending on terms, etc if the phone rings, we’ll be there.
“2023 was another good building year; I had some tough tests and some where they didn’t want to know. I’ve learned so much, though, so I can’t complain. I was working full-time as always and still managed to get four fights in.
“This year, towards the back end, we want to be pushing on for titles. If nothing comes about at home and the phone goes for a different opportunity, we are going to be ready. My weight class is very competitive, and I know it is going to be hard, but I think I have the tools to achieve big things”.
Tickets for ‘Rising Stars’ are available now priced £40 standard and £75 VIP Ringside from the boxers directly or by emailing info@bcb-promotions.com.
