Mark White impresses on professional debut with landslide points victory

Mark White began his professional career with a comfortable points victory over Russ Midgley at the Riverside Lodge, Dunston.

White, 24, took every round on the referee’s scorecard to win 40-36, and showed his ability to quickly adapt to the professional game. 

He said: “I’m buzzing, I loved every second of it. I’ve put a lot of hard training in, and it all paid off tonight.

“It was totally different to the amateurs with no headguards and smaller gloves, but I soaked up every second and I enjoyed it.

“It was great to fight in front of all my friends and family, and hopefully with that performance the crowd will remember my name for next time."

The Birtley boxer signed with Fighting Chance in June, and was previously scheduled to kick-off his tenure in the paid ranks on July 24, but injuries to key fighters caused the Relentless Promotions show to be cancelled.

Upon making his highly anticipated professional debut, it was White’s first competitive bout for three years.

The 24-year old imposed himself as the aggressor from the opening bell, but with ring rust perhaps playing its part, Midgley remained threatening on the counter.

However, White began to find his rhythm in the second and pinned his opponent on the ropes before unleashing a number of quick-fire combinations.

Despite Midgley’s consistent showboating, White continued to utilise his fast hands to pile on the pressure.

In the final round, White controlled the tempo with consummate ease. Meanwhile the pace of the fight took its toll on Midgley as he went into reverse gear.

Speaking on sealing a 40-36 points victory, White said:

“It’s always nerve-wracking to get into the ring, but even more so that I hadn’t fought for three years. Once the ring rust started to wear off, I really got going.

“I’m tall for the weight so I was trying to keep my range.  I knew my shots were hurting on him, so I put even more pressure on him. He was showboating, but it didn’t faze me what so ever.

“It’s getting things going again and getting rid of the ring rust. Sparring with Anthony Nelson has boosted my confidence. My aim is to keep on working in the gym and improve with each fight.”

Mark White and Fighting Chance Promotions would like to thank Ravensworth Construction for their continued support.