Boxer Peter Newbury returns to the ring at Barnsley Metrodome on Saturday, September 21, after more than a year out through injury, for a shot at the European Boxing Federation’s English title.
The former kickboxer, who switched to boxing through the federation, which specialises in staging fights for semi-professionals, had a successful start to his career in 2011 with wins in his first three bouts, having previously won 16 and drawn one kickboxing contests over the previous two years.
Then the Todmorden cruiserweight, now 28, sustained damage to a kidney and withdrew from competition before deciding to return to the ring this year after receiving medical clearance. He will be one of eight fighters on the bill.
“The reason they are giving me an English title shot is I hadn’t lost. I have been given the OK by the hospital and had to produce a doctor’s note to the promoters, and they have offered me a fight,” he explained.
Newbury’s partner is expecting a child in December and he hopes a return to boxing will produce some extra income for the family.
Now sponsored by the Workout Warehouse gym in Halifax, he has been back in serious training for 10 weeks.
He says his new team have got him fighting fit and ready to compete at the 700-capacity arena.
“They have given me my diet plans, sponsorship, training and a new corner team. My weight had gone up to 20 stone but I am back at my 17-stone fighting weight.
“I don’t like to know who I am fighting - my trainers know but I don’t. I’m a bit nervous because it’s a year and a half since I competed at this level. But I have no injuries and things are going well and getting my weight down is good.
“If I win this I will go for the EBF’s British title,” he said.
Tickets are available from the Loft nightclub, Todmorden, or from Peter on telephone 07415 723903.