Worksop fighter Clegg all set to join pro ranks

The 19-year-old has been training at Manton Sports Club under the tutelage of Robin Hood Boxing’s Matthew Scriven and is expected to receive his pro licence in the upcoming weeks.

And Scriven says he has high hopes for the super middleweight having spent lots of time in the ring with him in recent months.

He said: “I’ve coached a British champion before in Andy Bell from Doncaster, so I know what it takes and I see lots of qualities in Dylan that I think could see him go the same way.

“Dylan’s had an average amateur career but whereas some at his age tail off and follow other interests, he’s really committed to carrying on and has taken to the professional environment really well.

“We’ve travelled around a lot and I’ve put a lot of time and effort into helping him as I believe he has what it takes to become a British champion.

“He is a great listener and is taking more and more on board that I tell him and is doing really well in the sparring sessions we’ve had with some top boxers.”

Scriven believes that the tools Clegg possesses will be key to his success, given the nature of his strengths.

He said: “Dylan is a very mature young kid, which is crucial if you’re going to go into the pro ranks at his age.

“Some at his age throw it away having had boxing shoved down their throats throughout their childhood, but Dylan has a good head on young shoulders and the physical tools to match as well.

“He has long limbs, so tends to be someone who won’t be coming forward to brawl but rather will aim not to get hit at all given he can stand back and do the hitting himself.

“He’s finding his feet and I think he’ll do really well.”

Scriven is now hoping Clegg will be able to begin his pro career in the next couple of months, pending his licence being approved and fights being arranged.

He said: “I’d love him to have a fight in Worksop in March or around that time. He’s a popular kid locally and will sell out venues like the North Notts Arena.

“He had his interview with the BBBC and they seemed impressed so I don’t think it’ll be a problem getting his licence soon.

“We’ll then see what we can get arranged. He’ll have five or ten fights to find his feet but then we can progress and then I think he can go a long way.

“He has made the transition really well and having had a break over Christmas and new year he’s raring to go and keen to get his pro career up and running.”

Clegg has already earned his first sponsorship deal, with Worksop Timber Ltd, and is hoping for similar deals to help him along the way.