By James Bovington
Bramley lad Kalem Pickles is hoping to add to his record of wins in the Bramley Villagers’ semi-professional boxing show on 11 November.
Pickles is one of 20 or so local boxers at the club who train up to six times a week mainly with local boxing manager DeeJay Titch.
Pickles said: “I was six when my dad first took me to a boxing club and I instantly fell in love with the sport, I enjoy everything about boxing and there’s nothing that I dislike as it teaches discipline and improves self-confidence.
“Even when I lost a match against a powerful opponent when I thought that I’d won I learnt from it and became determined to win all fights by stoppage. So that is the plan for my next opponent to finish knocked to the canvas. I don’t worry too much about him, if he gets hurt he should have defended himself better. Knocking an opponent out shows future opponents how tough and talented I am and exactly what they will face when boxing me. That way there’ll be no shortage of opponents.”
Former Leeds West Academy student Pickles recently turned 18 and is now an apprentice electrician. “I’m quite a friendly, sociable person and am also involved in Stanningley Rugby League club most weekends, and when not training I’m always out with my mates.”
Pickles credits his father for his commitment to boxing. “He’s my biggest supporter and the person who started this love for boxing,” explained Pickles. “He’s been there for every fight I’ve had and supported me whatever the result. My late great grandfather Peter Gunby coached at Leeds United and learning from his sense of achievement has given me extra reason to fulfil my boxing ambition.
“I intend to pursue a career as a professional boxer, but the fact is that it is a great sport for people of all ages and backgrounds whether or not they want to compete. It really is the best activity possible and I’m proud that it’s central to my life.”
Tickets for 11 November event styled A Day to Remember are available from Pickles or any of the other boxers on the show best reached by e-mail at info@bramleyvillagers.co.uk or messaging DeeJay Titch directly on Facebook.