TWO Bradford boxers are aiming to make a fist of it after leaving the amateur ranks to turn pro.

Jermaine Springer and Zeeshan Khan are both gearing up for a first paid-for outing at the end of next month in Hull.

The former Karmand Centre duo are based in the city’s St Paul’s gym under Mick Bromby and Paul Kershaw. They will be promoted by Carl Greaves.

Both boxers enjoyed successful amateur careers. Khan, 25, represented England and is a former junior ABAE finalist while Springer has a national title under his belt.

The 28-year-old, who will box at cruiserweight or light-heavy, also used to play football for Eccleshill United. But he has hung up his boots to focus on his fists.

Springer said: “I had a bit of a think about it. I’ve had a few stops and starts with the boxing but it’s been in the back of my mind for a long time to try it.

“If I didn’t give it a go, there would always be that regret.

“I’ve been on a few England training camps and they wanted me to stay amateur to fight internationally for them and maybe look to the next Olympics.

“But I’m really excited about turning pro, even though it’s a lot more demanding training twice a day for five or six days a week.

“When I used to feel nervous about fights, I would question whether I had done enough training and whether I was committed. Now I know I will be doing everything right.”

They will be the first boxers from the Barkerend club to turn pro since Femi Fehintola, although unbeaten Holme Wood fighter Darren Tetley trained there as a youngster.

Springer added: “I’m not here to be a journeyman and just make up the numbers.

“I want to win stuff, win titles and have that mentality to go as far as I can with my boxing. I’m aiming to go as high as possible.”

Both boxers are looking for local sponsorship on 07506 318430.