Aitcheson to end a one-year ring exile

Ring return: Dewsbury Moor boxer Tony Aitcheson faces his first fight in 12 months at Elland Road on March 28.

Aitcheson has been added to the bumper Elland Road bill, which sees Leeds prospect Damon Jones fight for the vacant British Masters light middleweight title and China Clarke fight for the International Masters cruiserweight title.

Aitcheson was unbeaten in the amateur ranks and won a senior novice ABA title, before making his pro debut against Karl Taylor in Bolton in March 2009.

The 24-year-old had a lengthy spell out of the ring but returned on March 22 last year with a points win over Nathan Capeness on a raucous night at Leeds Town Hall.

Aitcheson had a lengthy chat with trainer Julian McGowan and has re-joined the Central Boxing Club stable in Batley, where he will again train alongside Dewsbury star Gary Sykes.

Aitcheson said: “I’ve had time away but I always kept in the gym and I have now realised boxing is what I want.

“I’ve grown up a lot and I’m determined to make it a good year and be busy, hopefully, injuries permitting, boxing every 10 weeks.

“From the things Julian has been saying, he can see a difference in me already.

“I sold around 150 tickets for my last fight and there has been a lot of interest in this, so hopefully I’ll do a similar number if not more.”

McGowan said: “Tony is a phenomenal talent, I have always said that, but he is also box office, and as his exposure increases it paves the way for a bright future.

“He is working very very hard, we have a nice long camp so are not concerned with inactivity, everything so far is good and the team is glad to have him back.

“Often with young men, it takes time for them to realise what they want in life, and Tony always comes full circle – he wants to be a successful boxer.

“It has never left him. There’s no pressure on him or me, he just needs to fight regularly and play catch up. But at 24, everything is there for him he just needs to reach out.”

Aitcheson will return at light welterweight, with the fight likely to be made at 10st 5lb, against an opponent to be named nearer the time.

Aitcheson added: “I was weighed last week at 10st 10lb, which is lighter than when I last fought, so that shows I have kept in the gym and kept myself in shape.”

Aitcheson also thanks Gerrad of LGS Construction in Cleckheaton for his sponsorship.

Aitcheson will receive a batch of tickets, priced £35, £50 ringside or £75 VIP which will go on sale this Friday by calling Tony on 07507 866699.