Sunderland Echo

MACLEOD TARGETS THE LIGHT FOR TITLE TILT

ISAAC DETERMINED TO LAND FIRST CHAMPIONSH­IP CHANCE AT SUNDERLAND AFC’S HOME

- By David Nunn nep.sport @jpress.co.uk Twitter: @sunderland­echo

Sunderland boxer Isaac Macleod says he’s ready to fight for a title – and he would love for it to be at the Stadium of Light.

The undefeated welterweig­ht is back in action next Friday, May 26, at the Rainton Meadows Arena, but doesn’t yet have a named opponent.

Macleod, though, already has one eye on the Summer Rumble at Sunderland AFC’s home ground.

“It would be massive to fight at the Stadium of Light and I would love it to be for a title,” said Macleod.

“This next fight is just a stepping stone compared to where I want to go in my career.”

Promoter Phil Jeffries is yet to find an opponent for the man they call ‘Can Bang’, but the Sunderland prospect insists whoever he fights in Houghton next weeke won’t be easy.

“There’s a few opponents we have to choose from with winning records and they are all good lads,” said the Wearsider. “It certainly won’t be a walkover fight.

“I’ve been nagging him (Jeffries) for a title shot for a while now and I hope this year it can happen.

“I’ve moved to the Birtley gym and I’m desperate to get in there and showcase my skills.”

The 22-year-old boasts an unbeaten record of seven wins, with two victories by stoppage.

However, Macleod hasn’t stepped through the ropes for a fight since last year, when he beat Ryan Hardy on points at the Rainton Meadows Arena, but insists that he feels better since beginning work at Birtley.

Macleod is determined to put on a show next Friday. “All of my mistakes are ironed out now and my aim is not to lose a round, whilst showcasing what I’m all about,” he said.

North East boxing is certainly on the rise, with fighters like Josh Kelly turning profession­al and Tommy Ward winning the British super-bantamweig­ht title only last weekend.

“There’s big fights coming in the North East,” Macleod said.

Jeffries’ event next Friday will include a range of top North East talent at different weight levels, including unbeaten Darren Surtees against Ross Jameson for the Northern Area light-welterweig­ht belt and knockout artist Warren Baister.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased at the door on the night.

 ??  ?? Isaac Macleod is awaiting an opponent for next Friday’s fight at Rainton Meadows Arena. Picture by Stu Norton.
Isaac Macleod is awaiting an opponent for next Friday’s fight at Rainton Meadows Arena. Picture by Stu Norton.

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