Bradford boxer confident after another win in Wakefield

That came in a light-heavyweight contest, organised by Steve Woods through his company VIP Promotions at Wakefield Lightwaves, but Lawrence admitted to being dismayed that the promised step-up to six rounds did not occur owing to a last-minute change in opponent.

“It’s frustrating but I’m ready to step up,” said Lawrence, who trains at Leeds ABC club under Wayne Woods.

“I spar for 10 rounds in the gym anyway. It’s not easy, obviously, but I can do it so I’m ready for a six or eight round bout.

“It can’t come soon enough if I’m to progress as a credible challenger for British boxing’s central area titles this coming year.”

His debut fight ended in a spectacular second round knockout of Byron Abiru and two years in the professional ranks have seen 21-year-old Lawrence remain undefeated after six four-round matches including winning all four rounds to see off opponent Nathan Junor in Wakefield last weekend. ‘

Lawrence said: “Boxing can be annoying, so I’m grateful to Nathan for stepping in at short notice.

“I’m always in the gym and my life revolves around the training.

Connor Lawrence (right) after a sparring session earlier this month. (Image: UGC.)

“I’m constantly getting stronger because I have a physically demanding full-time job so I’m more than ready to show boxers higher up the division exactly what I’m capable of and that includes getting as many stoppages as possible.”

Lawrence began boxing at the age of 14 and despite only having 19 amateur bouts, he won four Yorkshire amateur titles in that time.

He added: “I’m now fully focused on developing my career and want to thank my sponsors Focus Embroidery, Redroof Scaffolding and Ricky Power Roofing for their generous assistance.

“It’s a journey and I’m aiming for the top so I’m putting other boxers on notice. Boxing me they’ll learn what it means to face an opponent who’s rock-hard.”

By James Bovington