What a Storey

Lonsdale belt holder Sam Storey brought his 'upper body' class and
knowledge to the world of kickboxing this week.
Storey, a one-time challenger to Chris Eubank when he reigned as WBO
super-middleweight champion, was on hand to help PROkick fighters improve
punch power at Billy Murray's gym in East Belfast.
The former Holy family star, who was the first ever winner of the British
super-middleweight title, was back in a ring for the first time since his
final professional fight in April 1997, and loved every minute of it.
"After my last fight I vowed never to get into the ring again. I'd had it
with boxing and the demands of training. But I couldn't resist the
invitation to do the pads at the PROkick Gym," said Storey.
"It's a different fight environment but the magical smell of the gym is
just the same as the one I grew up in. I got a real taste for it again and
it was a good experience. I've been to a few kickboxing events and
understand that there's a big emphasis on lower body skill.

"But there seems to be a growing cross-over into the sport from the boxing
world and some boxers may have an upper body advantage over kickboxers. So
this was a good opportunity for me to give kickboxers and insight to boxing
training."

The former boxing champion, Story, will be ringside to see some of the prokick fighters
in action.

Belfast's World featherweight champion Hamilton had been due to meet Thai fighter Ek Thornsen in a non-title clash at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel in Bangor on March 5 – the clash collapsed opening the door for Belgian Colassin to step in.
“It’s s shame about Thornsen, but that’s the fight game,” said Hamilton. “I’ve seen a lot of Colassin’s fights and he is a nippy, persistent fighter. He never gives you a minutes rest. It’ll be hard, but I am in good form. I will fight whoever is put in front of me.”
His fight is a top of the bill clash at a lavish black tie Bash and Mash –
a gourmet meal will be followed by several top class kickboxing bouts.
Which will also see Belfast woman Lydia Braniff challenge for an Irish title.
Mr BBC Sport Stephen Watson has been confirmed as guest speaker at the Bangor show.

Tickets for the event are £40,are available on the ProKick 24 ticketline 02890 651074.

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