By Brad Clark: Pete ‘The Choirboy’ Leworthy is set for the biggest test of career when he takes on Shaun ‘Slasher’ Walton. The 24-year-old boxer from Bristol enters the ring as a professional for the third time this Saturday in front of none other than Ricky Hatton. However, Leworthy has reasons for performing well other than impressing The Hitman.
“My Grandma passed away last week. She would always ask how my boxing was going and would tell me stories of how my Granddad was a boxer. We were going to have a celebratory drink when I won my fight on the 20th so I’m doing this fight for her, dedicating it to her.”
Leworthy has spent the past week sparring with Alfonso Vieyra, a Mexican/American boxer who has recently signed for Ricky Hatton and believes the experience will help him come Saturday.
“He is about my weight and it’s good because we are both bringing each other on.”
With Ricky Hatton set to be sitting ringside on the night, Leworthy may feel an added pressure to perform in front of one of his heroes.
“It will be tough because I know that Hatton will be watching and I will want to impress. My debut fight was on Ricky’s first promotion in Birmingham and I know I won’t be as nervous as I was that night.
“I had never met Ricky before then and to box in front of him was a big thing. However, this time, I will know what to expect. I’ll just block the thought of Hatton being there until after I’ve finished my job, done what I had to do and won.”
Leworthy’s opponent is nine years his senior but in 47 fights has only managed four victories and three draws. Despite this, Walton has been in company with some tough fighters over the years and will provide a stern test for the Bristol man.