Bobby ready for the deep end in battle of Britain

Tameside’s Bobby Faulkner is ready break Scottish hearts when he tops the bill in a battle of Britain clash this weekend. 

The Hideout in Farnworth is the venue for the VIP Boxing show which pits the 25-year-old from Audenshaw against Johnstone fighter Jack Owens. 

The bout represents a big step up for the unbeaten welterweight against an opponent who has already won titles north of the border.

“Jack’s record is four wins and one defeat, but he’s already been in two ten-round contests,” Bobby explained. 

“I’ve had more fights [ten] than him, but I’d say he’s more experienced in terms of fighting lads who are coming to win over more rounds. But this is exactly the kind of fight I’ve been asking for. I haven’t boxed since February, so was delighted when this opportunity came about.

“I boxed in a fair few England v Scotland contests when I was an amateur. I really enjoyed those nights on big shows - it was always a right buzz! I’m sure Jack will bring a fair few supporters down with him, so it should make for a good night and a good fight too.”

Contests have been hard to come by for Bobby, who when not training in the gym with his coach - former world champion, Anthony Crolla - builds swimming pools for a living alongside his dad, Rob.

After a brief period of inactivity, the former Oldham Athletic and Blackburn Rovers academy footballer is ready to jump straight into the deep end and take on all-comers in his pursuit of boxing belts.

“This fight is over eight rounds, and it should suit me as I’ll take my time and work my way into the fight,” said Bobby. “It can take me a couple of rounds to really find my range, so I think it stepping up in rounds will suit me a lot more.

“It’s a bit of a mad time for boxers at the moment. If you’re already at the top level, things are really good. But for the boxers working to get to that level, it is becoming more difficult.

“But whatever opportunities I get, I’ll take. There’s no point in ticking over with fights just to get out on a show. You’re just losing money, so I’d rather just go for it and have it with anyone at anytime.”