Jon-Lewis Dickinson to headline ‘Genesis’ on March 26 at Gateshead Leisure Centre

Cruiserweight Jon-Lewis Dickinson is set to headline Fighting Chance’s inaugural show on March 26 at Gateshead Leisure Centre.

The 29-year-old will feature for the first time since his career-best victory against Stephen Simmons in April, where he clinched the WBC International Silver title at the Metro Radio Arena.

Dickinson will top a bill that includes an array of North East boxers, including stablemates Mark White, Jone TK and debutant Jamie Jones (subject to board approval).

As part of an exclusive partnership, ‘Genesis’ will be the first Fighting Chance show that will air across all four Made Television channels: Made in Bristol, Made in Cardiff, Made in Leeds and Made in Tyne & Wear.

Fighting Chance promoter, Lewis Pendleton said: “We are delighted to provide a platform for North East fans to see Jon-Lewis Dickinson back in action.

"With our exclusive broadcast partner, Made Television, and an exciting lineup of boxers, March 26 promises to be a great night for boxing fans.”

Mark Clauzel of Ringstar Promotions, has four boxers on the bill, including: Basi Razaq, Herry Biembe, Michael Dixon and Kevin Elliot.

Razaq is looking to bounce back from his first career defeat and Biembe, a former Olympian, will make his highly anticipated UK debut.

Elsewhere, James Barnes will debut at light heavyweight after losing over five stone, and Tommy Conroy duo Danny ‘Tsunami’ Wall and Gary Reeve will also feature.

Tickets for ‘Genesis’ on March 26 will be available soon. For the latest Fighting Chance news, follow our twitter page @fcpromotions1 and like our official facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/fightingchancepromotions/?fref=ts

Andrew Buchanan retires from boxing after eye injury

Andrew Buchanan has been forced to call time on his boxing career after suffering a serious eye injury.

The 35-year-old picked up the injury during sparring, and after seeking specialist help has been advised to retire to avoid further health implications.

The career-ending injury comes after a promising spell for Buchanan, in which he was unbeaten in six fights (two draws), and had progressed up the super middleweight rankings to earn an eliminator for the English title.

Speaking on the decision to retire, he said:

“The injury is constantly giving me bother, and the doctors have advised me to not take any risks with it. If I was young, I could get surgery, but at my age I think it is time to take a step-back from boxing.

“I have to put my health first. It has been a tough decision, but I need to do what is best for my family. They are always going to be number one, and I want to make sure I can be there for them.

“I would like to thank anyone who has seen me fight or supported me. I’ve really appreciated the support I have got over the years.”

Buchanan held a prestigious amateur record and boxed for England, but upon turning professional was often plagued with misfortune and inactivity.

The Newcastle boxer fought 11 times in a stop-start career, recording eight wins, two draws and just one defeat.

North East fight fans will hold Buchanan’s draw against Jonson McClumpha in high regard, as the six-round bout that featured on Phil Jeffries’ 2013 Summer Rumble was hailed as a contender for regional fight of the year.

Only five months later, Buchanan solidified his reputation as a technically sound operator by outpointing Gary Boulden over ten rounds to lift the International Masters title. 

But in a bid to box more regularly and aim for major titles, ‘El Cannon’ joined Fighting Chance’s stable in January 2015.

Although he only fought once under the Fighting Chance banner, Buchanan is extremely grateful for the opportunities provided at the Felling-based gym.

“I would have liked more fights under the Fighting Chance stable.

“Ron Rowe (FC chief coach) and Lewis Pendleton (FC director) have done everything they have said they would do when I originally signed. I really can’t fault them.

“They showed a lot of faith in me, and got me a lot of good opportunities. They pushed me towards a Northern Area title, and an English title eliminator."

Buchanan insists he will continue to support the Fighting Chance stable, and is hopeful that in the future he can step into a coaching role and pass on guidance to the rising crop.

He added: “I want some time with my family first, but I’ve spoke to Ron and Lewis about helping out in the future with Fighting Chance in a coaching role.

“It would be great to put something back into the sport. I still have a lot of boxing knowledge that I can pass on.

“I like picking up on certain techniques, and hopefully I can do that at the Fighting Chance gym.”

Fighting Chance chief coach, Ronnie Rowe worked with Buchanan as an amateur, before they re-united in the professional ranks.

Speaking on Buchanan’s decision to retire, he said:

“He has been a great part of the team. Unfortunately boxing is a tough sport and these things happen. We wish him all the best for the future.

“In the short period he has been with us, it has been a brilliant experience. We would love to have him back to help with coaching. He still has a lot to give to boxing, and will remain part of the Fighting Chance organisation."

Fighting Chance director, Lewis Pendleton added: “I’m incredibly disappointed that due to Andy’s serious eye injury, we will not be able to get him the title we promised.

“He is a model professional and a fantastic ambassador for the sport. He is probably the most gifted boxer to not win a major title.

“Everyone at Fighting Chance wishes Andy every success in the future. Ultimately he has made the right decision, as family and health is far more important than any boxing title.”

Andrew Buchanan to face Kelvin Young in English title eliminator

Andrew Buchanan (left) in action. All photos courtesy of www.ImagesBySW.com

Fighting Chance’s Andrew Buchanan is edging towards a long-awaited title opportunity as he has been granted an English title eliminator against Kelvin Young.

The contest has been approved by the BBBoC and will go to purse bids on October 14, with the eliminator scheduled to take place before the end of January.

The winner will be made mandatory challenger for the English super middleweight title, which is currently held by Jahmaine Smyle.

Speaking on landing an English title eliminator for Buchanan, Fighting Chance head coach Ronnie Rowe said:

“It took a lot of discussion and planning, but the board have approved the request for Andy to be considered for the English title, and have therefore granted an eliminator.

“I am delighted that we have got Andy this opportunity. It is fully deserved and gives him a chance of fighting for a major title in the near future.”

Buchanan has had an unconventional boxing career, as the Newcastle fighter originally hung up his gloves in 2005 after pursuing a full-time job that would help provide financial security for his family. 

But eight years later, Buchanan returned to the sport, and has held a six-fight unbeaten streak since, which has allowed him to enter title contention.

With an English title eliminator looming, the 35-year-old’s best years could still be ahead of him, but Rowe has warned that Kelvin Young should not be taken lightly.

“Andy has the ability to go on and win the English title, but first he must take care of Kelvin Young, which will be no easy task.”

Rowe added: “Andy made the tough decision to return to boxing, and since signing him we have delivered on our promise to create opportunities. While Andy does the work in the ring, full credit must go to the Fighting Chance set-up for getting Andy to this stage."

If you, or your company would like to be part of Buchanan’s bid for title glory via sponsorship, please email fighting.chance@mail.com or personal message the Fighting Chance Promotions facebook page, and we’ll get back to you.

An open letter from directors Lewis Pendleton and Ron Rowe MBE‏: “We give boxers a Fighting Chance”

Fighting Chance Promotions were born out of giving boxers opportunities. In November 2013, we collaborated to develop and create unique opportunities for north east fighters. 

And a strong team has assembled since, which includes Gary Barr as trainer, Chris Clayton: MSC Performance Nutritionist, Andre Tulip: Physiotherapist, Martin Nugent and Louis Cunningham: Strength and conditioning coaches, Michael Briggs (MFB media): Digital and social media officer, Steven White: Chief photographer and our media officer, Nathan Orr. 

Strong foundations have been laid for the Fighting Chance stable, and the whole team work tirelessly to put the boxers in the best position possible - which is the least they deserve in such a tough sport. 

Craig Dixon with Gary Barr

Fighting Chance started this journey when Craig Dixon won the International Masters title on Steve Wraith’s ‘Young Guns’ bill. The show was important to build Craig and display his immense boxing ability. It has been difficult to match him since, but we believe his talent will allow him to go on to win major titles.

Jon-Lewis and Travis Dickinson have achieved great things in boxing, and it's a tremendous feat that both have won the Prizefighter tournament, which was aired live on Sky Sports.

After winning the competition, Jon-Lewis went on to win the Northern Area title, English title, and became the first boxer from Tyneside to retain the Lonsdale belt outright.

Meanwhile, Travis Dickinson has boxed in front of huge audiences. The highlight being when 2.6 million people tuned into his fight against Matty Clarkson, which was aired on Channel 5 and was hailed as a fight of the year contender.

In his upcoming fight, Travis has the opportunity to redeem his last defeat when he defends his English title, live on Boxnation, on October 30^th against Miles Shinkwin.

Reigning English light heavyweight champion, Travis Dickinson. 

Following the announcement that Matchroom Sport were coming to the north east after signing Bradley Saunders, we were introduced to Eddie Hearn and duly negotiated that Jon-Lewis and Travis would box on the Metro Radio Arena bill in April.

The highlight of the night for many was Jon-Lewis outboxing and stopping Stephen Simmons to win the WBC International title. For us it proved that by fully supporting our fighters, it provides the biggest platform for them to deliver.

In the past year, we have also kept our fighters busy by working with Steve Wraith and Relentless Promotions.

We have added a number of exciting talents to our stable. Fijian heavyweight Jone TK joined earlier this summer and comes with a good amateur pedigree.

Also joining the team is Mark White who has boxed for England. It’s exciting to see how Mark will adapt to the professional game, and he will make his debut on September 18 on the ‘New Kids On The Block’ show, which will be promoted by Steve Wraith and Relentless Promotions.

Lewis Scott holds a bright future and we look forward to seeing how far he can go in the sport. In the last few months, we have worked hard on getting him back to his best after injury troubles.

We are proud to have provided Andrew Buchanan a final chance in boxing, as we look to provide the opportunities he deserves. We were thoroughly disappointed that his Northern Area title shot fell through due to O’Neill picking up an injury. But Andy’s attitude is second to none, and he would cause problems for any fighter at domestic level.

New signings Jone TK and Mark White

Our team provides unrivalled opportunities having worked with major promoters like Eddie Hearn, Frank Warren, Mick Hennessy and Dennis Hobson, and of course our fruitful working relationship with Steve Wraith and Relentless Promotions.

We are happy to work with everyone and anyone for the best interests of our fighters and we are able to get these opportunities due to the ability of our boxers and the dedication of the team behind them. 

Fighting Chance Promotions would like to thank all of our partners and sponsors who make things possible. Special thanks must go to MFB media, ImagesBSW, Portland Consulting Engineers, Arch Homes, WM utilities, Onesign print and digital, Ravensworth Construction, Zoemick commercials, Wear Mini Mix, Roflow, Winns Solicitors, Intu Metroentre, Made Television and  VGS Global.

Together we are #TeamFC.

SUMMER SHOWDOWN CANCELLED

Fighting Chance Promotions regret to announce that this Friday’s Summer Showdown show in Gateshead has been cancelled.

Andrew Buchanan’s Northern Area title clash against Greg O’Neill was set to headline the bill, while Anthony Nelson’s first appearance since lifting the Commonwealth title in April was chief support.

Fighting Chance’s Lewis Scott and Jone TK were to make up the rest of the card, with Scott re-matching Simeone Lucas, and Jone TK making his debut at heavyweight.

However the bill has been called off after Greg O’Neill and Ian Hallsall suffered injuries.

The withdrawals of Halsall and O’Neill meant there were only two fights left on the bill, and promoter Steve Wraith along with Fighting Chance director Lewis Pendleton, were forced to make the tough decision to cancel ‘Summer Showdown 1’.

Despite the show being cancelled, Pendleton has declared his ambition to get Jone TK, Scott and Buchanan back in the ring as soon as possible.

He said: “We are absolutely devastated that this show has been cancelled. The lads had trained hard for 13 weeks and looked in terrific shape.

“Andy, Jone TK and Lewis have shown tremendous dedication by wanting to get straight back in the gym despite this setback. We will assess the options available to them and look to get them out as soon as possible.

"We will be speaking to Gary O’Neill’s team in order to re-schedule a Northern Area title clash against Andrew Buchanan. We promised Andy title opportunities, and we will look at the area title before moving onto major honours.”

If you bought tickets for ‘Summer Showdown 1’ please contact your point of purchase for ticket refunds.

**SPONSORS REQUIRED FOR FIGHTERS ON AUGUST 21 'SUMMER SHOWDOWN' SHOW**

Andrew Buchanan, Lewis Scott and Jone TK are featuring on the August 21 ‘Summer Showdown 1’ show at the Academy For Sport at Gateshead Stadium.

Buchanan’s Northern Area title shot against Gregg O’Neill is the shows headliner, while Lewis Scott looks to avenge his defeat to Simone Lucas and heavyweight Jone TK makes his professional debut.

The Fighting Chance stable are working hard in their preparations and need your help in paying for training costs- which include physiotherapy, strength & conditioning and training supplements.

In return, the sponsorship packages on hand are the perfect opportunity for your business.

The headline sponsor package, which involves the Northern Area title clash between Andrew Buchanan and Gregg O’Neill includes:

-Branding on two corner posts on August 21

-Full-page advert in programme

-Logo on fighters t-shirts

-Logo on trainers t-shirts

-Announcements during the show, which will advertise your business.

-Branding at press conference, weigh-in and during the show

-Logo to feature during live YouTube stream

-Credits in all local press and press releases

-Logo on Fighting Chance TV interviews

-Plus 5 VIP Tickets

Alternatively, the separate boxer sponsorship package includes:

-Branding on t-shirt of boxer

-Branding on t-shirt of trainer

-Framed signed photo from boxer

-Half page advert

-Plus 2 VIP Tickets

If interested, please email fighting.chance@mail.com or personal message the Fighting Chance Promotions facebook page, and we’ll get back to you.

Andrew Buchanan to fight for Northern Area title on August 21

Fighting Chance Promotions are delighted to announce that Andrew Buchanan will challenge for the Northern Area title on August 21 at the Academy For Sport, against Greg O'Neil, subject to the contest being approved by the British Boxing Board of Control.

Since returning to the professional ranks in 2013 after an eight-year absence, Buchanan has gone on a six-fight unbeaten streak, and has made a steady rise up the super-middleweight rankings.

At the age of 35, Buchanan is in a hurry, and the Northern Area belt could be a potential launchpad to further honours, including the English and British title.

The Newcastle-born boxer expressed his delight at landing the title shot, labelling the area title clash as the 'biggest fight of his career.'

He said: "It's a massive opportunity for me. I want to challenge for the English title, and this is something I have to do before then. I want to prove I'm the best in the region before looking up and down the country.

"I returned to the sport for the glory and to win titles, and because of my age I can't hang about. There is no way I will be looking past this fight, I know how much is riding on it.

"Ronnie Rowe and Lewis Pendleton have really got behind me. They have put their time, effort and money to get me these opportunities because they believe in me. It's up to me to prove them right when I get in the ring."

Greg O'Neil, who is based out of the Gus Robinson Developments gym in Hartlepool, will oppose 'El Cannon' over ten rounds.

The 24-year old has suffered two defeats in five outings, against London 2012 Olympic bronze medallist Anthony Ogogo and Lewis Taylor, who currently holds the English middleweight title.

With O'Neil's defeats only being against top quality opposition, Buchanan is more than aware of the challenge that lies ahead.

"I'm expecting ten hard rounds, so that is what we are training for. I've never seen him box, but I've got a rough idea of what kind of style he's got and what he brings to the table.

"All of the boxers at Gus Robinson Developments gym in Hartlepool are tough, strong lads. I know I'm going to be in for a hard fight, and there is no such thing as a pushover. I've got to be at my best to beat him."

Fighting Chance director Lewis Pendleton is confident that Buchanan can challenge for domestic titles, and complimented the efforts of Mick Marsden, who matched Buchanan with O'Neil.

He said: “Navigating Andy to a Northern Area title shot is something we have aimed for in the past few months, and we are delighted to have landed this brilliant opportunity for him.

“Andy has exceptional boxing ability and like all our fighters, he needs challenged to see how far he can go. 

"We believe landing a Northern Area title clash for Andy is a stepping-stone towards bigger things, and that includes perhaps an English or even a British title shot. If Andy is to box for domestic honours, then these are the sort of fights he needs to win."

Fighting Chance Promotions are optimistic that Andrew Buchanan’s Northern Area title clash on August 21 will be a stepping-stone to bigger things, including potential title-shots for the English or British title.

If you, or your company would like to be part of Buchanan’s bid for title glory via sponsorship, please email fighting.chance@mail.com or personal message the Fighting Chance Promotions facebook page, and we’ll get back to you.