James Barnes drops to light-heavyweight in a bid to revive career

Newcastle-based boxer James Barnes cuts an almost unrecognisable figure compared to his last outing eight months ago, and the former heavyweight is determined to prove a point in his next bout, on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre.

The 33-year-old made a successful debut in November 2014, but was left disheartened after several consecutive defeats. A stoppage loss against Michael Dixon in July was the final straw, and made Barnes realise that drastic action had to be taken in order to revive his career.

After shedding over six stone, Barnes is feeling better than ever and is ready to start a new chapter at light heavyweight.

“I came close to retiring from boxing after losing to Michael Dixon, but I decided that with the amount of time and effort I’ve put into boxing I had to continue.

“I’ve had a few bad fights and a number of decisions go against me, so I decided to move down two weight divisions. Originally I was going to aim for Cruiserweight but the weight kept coming off.

“I am looking forward to showing off my new skills at light heavyweight. I’ve changed my boxing style completely and haven’t lost any punching power. As far as I’m concerned I’m starting from scratch and it’s like my debut again.”

Barnes, who trains out of Jobes gym in Benwell, has seen a career revamp in the last few months – and has added the services of trainer Keith McDonald.

He added: “Keith got in touch and said he wanted to help train me as he saw potential and doesn’t believe my record does my ability any justice.

“Since he’s come on board he’s got me to where I should be. Now that I’ve moved down in weight there will be more fights available. Hopefully I can get on more home shows to settle at the weight before going on the road again.”

Fighting Chance Promotions host ‘Genesis’ – a night of professional boxing show on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre. The bill includes an array of North East talent, including Jon-Lewis Dickinson, Glenn Foot, Josh Leather, Jone TK and Mark White amongst others. 

Tickets can be purchased from any of the boxers on the bill or from www.fightingchancepromotions.co.uk.

Craig Dixon falls short in British title eliminator against Mike Towell

Photo credit: Stuart Ward, fightographer.co.uk

Fighting Chance welterweight Craig Dixon failed to capitalise on his British title eliminator opportunity by suffering a second-round stoppage defeat to ‘Iron’ Mike Towell, at the Lagoon Leisure Centre in Paisley, Scotland.

Dixon tasted victory in Scotland before, in 2013, when he outpointed Rhys Pagan. And the 29-year-old showed signs of replicating such success, when he overcame a pressing attack in the opening round to send his opponent crashing to the canvas via a swinging right hand.

The knockdown came as a surprise to those ringside, as with a single stoppage win to his name, Dixon was considered to be the astute boxer, and not the puncher in the eliminator clash.

However, the dream start wasn’t to last for long, and Towell, with help from the roaring home crowd started to get the better of high-tempo exchanges.

Towards the end of the second stanza, Towell wobbled Dixon momentarily and followed up by pinning his opponent against the ropes to fire a barrage of damaging blows. A continued heavy assault caused Dixon to slump against the ropes before Robert Williams stepped in and deemed him in no fit position to continue with 40 seconds left in the round.

By sealing the seventh stoppage win of his professional career, Towell secured a mandatory position for the British welterweight title – held by recently crowned Bradley Skeete. 

Meanwhile, Fighting Chance Promotions and Dixon will re-evaluate for the future and reflect on the second loss of his career. 

Fighting Chance Promotions would like to wish Mike Towell all the best for the future and thank Saltire Boxing for their hospitality.

Jon-Lewis Dickinson to face Tommy McCarthy in a British title eliminator on April 30

Jon-Lewis Dickinson will face Tommy McCarthy in an eliminator for the British Cruiserweight title on April 30.

Dickinson made headlines in 2015 by halting Stephen Simmons in a contest that was aired live on Sky Sports, and the County Durham boxer will get the opportunity to impress again on the big stage when he faces McCarthy on a show promoted by Eddie Hearn.

The 29-year-old has already won the Lonsdale belt outright, but believes a showdown with McCarthy could propel his career to the next level.

He said: “I’m not going to knock back these opportunities. I’ve won the British title before but boxing on Sky Sports is the sort of platform I’m after. It’s a win-win situation and could lead to bigger things.

“It will be a good fight against McCarthy. He’s unbeaten so far in his career and seems up for the challenge."

Before facing the Belfast boxer, Dickinson will headline Fighting Chance’s inaugural show on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre.

He added: “Originally I was going to fight for an international title on March 26, but with the McCarthy fight being agreed, we have decided to knock it down to a six-rounder. Since last year was quiet it’s good for me to keep busy.”

Speaking on the decision for Dickinson to box on a Matchroom show, at a venue still to be confirmed, Fighting Chance promoter Lewis Pendleton said:

“It’s a great platform for him to box on Sky Sports once again. He has already won the Lonsdale belt outright but this fight keeps him active and can hopefully push him towards world honours.  

“Jon’s manager and chief coach, Ron Rowe has done a fantastic job in keeping the relationship with Matchroom – and he deserves credit for that.”

Dickinson will be considered the more experienced of the two when they meet. However McCarthy, who is a 2010 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, has proved his worth since turning over to the paid ranks and holds an unbeaten record in eight professional contests.

The pair have one common opponent in Courtney Fry, but hold contrasting results over the Liverpool boxer. McCarthy sealed a unanimous points victory over Fry, meanwhile Dickinson had to get off the canvas twice in the first round and consequently fell narrowly short on the referee’s scorecard.

Dickinson will headline 'Genesis' on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre, which includes a host of other North East talent, including Josh Leather, Jone TK, Mark White, Herry Biembe and Basi Razaq amongst others.

Tickets for Genesis can be purchased from any boxers on the bill or fromwww.fightingchancepromotions.co.uk.

Fighting Chance Promotions and Jon-Lewis Dickinson would like to thank WM Utility Services and RevGear for their continued support.

Fighting Chance agree partnership with FitFresh&Healthy

Fighting Chance Promotions have agreed a partnership with FitFresh & Healthy who supply healthy, fresh food at a great price.

The agreement means that the food and nutrients store based in Team Valley will fuel all of Fighting Chance’s boxers during their tough training camps.

Supporters of Fighting Chance can use the code ‘TeamFC’ when at the online checkout to get £2 off selected orders. Orders can be made online at www.fit-fresh-healthy.co.uk for a next day delivery service, or alternatively the order can be prepared for collection.

All suppliers are local and provide long lasting flavoursome food. Shopping at FitFresh & Healthy means you can save money without compromising on quality.

Follow FitFresh & Healthy on social media:

Facebook.com/Fitfreshandhealthy

Twitter: @fitfresh247

Jon-Lewis Dickinson in Latvia to act as chief sparring partner for Mairis Breidis

Fighting Chance cruiserweight Jon-Lewis Dickinson is currently in Latvia to act as one of Mairis Bredis’ chief sparring partners.

Bredis’ management sought out Dickinson’s services ahead of their IBF inter-continental clash with Danie Venter on Feb 21.

The County Durham boxer is one of two sparring partners alongside Iago Kiladze – who holds a record of 24 wins and one loss. 

Speaking on his time in Latvia, Dickinson said:

“It’s a great experience to be out here. I’m trying to pick up tips from a different training environment and learn as much as I can.”

2016 could prove to be a busy year for the 29-year-old as he prepares for his first fight since a career-best victory against Stephen Simmons in April, where he lifted the WBC International Silver title.

Dickinson will headline 'Genesis' on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre, which includes a host of other North East talent, including Josh Leather, Jone TK, Mark White, Herry Biembe and Basi Razaq amongst others.

Tickets for Genesis can be purchased from any boxers on the bill or from www.fightingchancepromotions.co.uk.

Jon-Lewis Dickinson and Fighting Chance Promotions would like to thank Revgear and WM Utility services for their continued support.