If there’s any truth in the saying ‘like father like son’ then boxing fans are in for an exciting trip with Liverpool’s James Metcalf.
As the son of former WBU world light-welterweight champion Shea Neary, Metcalf has big boots to fill but is looking to show he is up to the task when he takes on former British title challenger Max Maxwell at the Robin Park Arena in Wigan on Dec 14.
In his heyday ‘Shamrock Express’ Neary was an aggressive, come-forward banger who thrilled crowds with his all-action style. James, a former ABA champion who is now unbeaten in three fights, insists he is a chip-off-the-old-block and is promising fans another whirlwind ride.
“I’m expecting a tough fight against Maxwell but I’m looking to outbox him and get the win,” said the 25-year-old.
“I watched my dad’s fights growing up but wasn’t allowed to go to his fights. I watch them back all the time now though, and he’s also my trainer so he’s there telling me what to do.
“I’ve got a similar style to him. I’ll go forward and have a fight but if I have to I can go on the back foot and box. I’m looking to get another win under my belt and then stay as busy as possible. I’ve had an injury for over a year so I’m looking to catch up and then fight for the English title in 2014.”
‘Kid Shamrock’ Metcalf isn’t the only fighter with a famous relative on the Wigan show, which is streamed live and free on VIPBOXING.TV. Also appearing will be Amir Khan’s brother Haroon, and Tyson Fury’s cousin Dempsey, while Ricky Hatton will also be watching at ringside.
Promoter Steve Wood said: “We’ll have some famous faces in the crowd for this show, with both Hatton and Amir Khan coming along, and the action in the ring will be great too.
“James does fight like his dad, he’s got that exciting kind of style. Maxwell will be a tough test so early in his career though so it will be interesting to see how he gets on.
“We also have former British bantamweight champ Gary Davies returning, as well as Warren Tansey who has battled back from a serious injury. Tickets are available still, or watch on VIPBOXING.TV.”
VIP Promotions presents a top evening of boxing at the Robin Park Centre in Wigan on December 14 featuring Bolton’s Haroon Khan; Lancaster’s Dempsey Fury; Liverpool’s James Metcalf, Ryan Vaughan, Steven Lewis, Adam Ismail and Phil Smith; St Helens’ Gary Davies; Middleton’s Warren Tansey and Liam Taylor, and Blackpool’s Matty Askin.
Tickets, priced at £30 (General) and £60 (Ringside), are available from all boxers or at www.vipbe.co.uk
The show will be streamed live and free on VIPBOXING.TV
Keep updated on VIP Promotions’ news by visiting www.vipboxing.com or follow on Twitter @vipboxing
