By James Bovington
West Leeds boxer Conor Doherty is training intensively for his seventh professional match at Elland Road on June 24 in the show titled ‘Gloved Up and Ready’ organised by promoter Mark Bateson and Doherty’s manager Danny Thornton.
Doherty, who began boxing aged 12 in 2011 when introduced to it by his father, explainsed: “I instantly fell in love with boxing and everything to do with it.”
Following ten years as an amateur winning the majority of his more than 40 fights Doherty signed as a professional with Thornton in 2021 at Camp Detox, based in Oldfield Lane Wortley.
“This seemed natural,” according to Doherty, “because I’d been there since I started and everyone there is like my second family. Danny knows the game. He was a pro boxer himself. I get along well with him and he gave me my boxing moniker ‘The Relentless’ which sums up my aggressive fighting style and determination.”
25-year-old lightweight boxer Doherty, who lives in Stanningley, doesn’t yet earn enough from boxing so works in the family roofing and driveways business.
He has won all five bouts staged at Elland Road but lost fighting in Scotland at short notice last Autumn.
“It was valuable experience,”was Doherty’s verdict. Like other determined young contenders Doherty is keen to fight boxers higher up the lightweight rankings. “I want longer, harder fights to show everyone just what I can do. I believe that I have lots of potential. Just need the opportunity to prove it. Hopefully at the Leeds Arena.
“I’m committed to making a career out of boxing. The sport can benefit everyone as it’s an excellent way for improving fitness and helping people mentally or physically.” concludes Doherty. “I’m also supporting Candlelighters to raise money so that poorly children can have the happier life they deserve.
“I was delighted to run the Leeds half marathon in May on their behalf. Working with a charity helps sportspeople contribute to the very community that has helped us get where we are.”
Doherty has several local sponsors who assist with ongoing expenses like medical bills and insurance but would appreciate greater support from businesses and individuals in West Leeds. He is best contacted via Facebook at Conor Doherty.