Determined Stevens ready to make his mark - The Redditch Standard

Determined Stevens ready to make his mark

Redditch Editorial 5th Oct, 2017   0

NATHAN Stevens will have his motto ‘if you believe, you’ll achieve’ entrenched firmly in his mind when he steps into the ring for his professional debut next weekend.

The Redditch heavyweight’s scheduled pro debut ended in anti-climax in July when his opponent failed a medical, leaving the Birmingham-born fighter having to settle for an exhibition match.

However, the serious stuff is back on the agenda for 23-year-old Stevens when he competes on The World Awaits bill at Walsall Town Hall on Saturday, October 14 also featuring fellow Redditch boxer, middleweight Andrew ‘D’Animal’ Robinson.

Stevens, who boxes out of Pat Benson Boxing Academy in Digbeth, is still awaiting confirmation of his opponent but knows whoever he faces is going to be in for a tough time.




Stevens, aka Nate, told the Standard: “I’ve actually had a few injury concerns as I hurt my ankle and damaged my rotator cuff, but I’m fine now and feeling fitter and stronger than I’ve ever been.

“I’ve put weight on, sitting at just over 15 stone, and feel extremely confident. I always say, this game is mind over matter and I’m adamant in my belief that I’ve done the necessary preparation and have the right people around me.


“My coach and big brother have been instrumental in getting me here and I see this as a must-win fight. If you believe, you’ll achieve.”

Stevens has been busy sparring at Errol Johnson’s gym in Wednesbury where he has gone up against big names including Ricky Summers and Lennox Clarke.

Light heavyweight Summers is ranked sixth in the UK and middleweight Clarke 14th and Stevens says he sees the likes of them and Robinson as perfect role models.

“These lads know what they’re doing and it’s great to be around them, train with them and pick up advice,” added Stevens.

“Ricky was really unlucky not to win a British title recently and it’s a matter of time until he does. Knowing someone of his calibre believes in you is a real confidence-booster.

“My goal is to win Midlands and English titles, with perhaps fighting for a Challenger Belt to come first. I know there’s lots of hard work ahead, but I believe in myself.

“There’s 38 professional heavyweights with a ranking in the UK, with Anthony Joshua being number one. I’ve got to win fights and work my way up as far as I can. It’s a great challenge.”

Tickets, costing £35 standard and £60 VIP to include food, are available by contacting Stevens on Instagram @natestevens_proboxing or by calling 07903 760970.

Stevens, backed by Haus of Wax (Solihull) and Sporting Barbers, welcomes new sponsors and anyone interested can contact him as above.

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