Stockport Nub News spoke to Rhys Woods, a born and bred Stopfordian making impressive progress in the professional boxing scene.  

This local boxer has made a strong start since entering professional boxing in 2021.  

In a remarkable pro debut, Rhys won against journeyman boxer Lewis van Poetsch, who was described by a commentator as "one of the hardest men in the country".

Since then Rhys has maintained a 5-2 win to loss record, with the next fight lined up at Bolton Whites on July 15.

Rhys describes being inspired by his granddad, who did boxing in the army. He started following the sport at the age of 16, after watching a match on television and being told about his grandfather's boxing talent by his mother.  

He began to pursue it more seriously around 18. For some boxers this is a comparatively late start, but Rhys maintained that "it's never too late, as long as you're dedicated". 

Making quick progress, Rhys was encouraged by Shinny of Shinny's Gym to consider taking up boxing professionally.  

"I decided just to go for it", says Rhys. "It seemed like too good of an opportunity to miss, and I didn't want any regrets over not taking it."

In line for the Bolton fight in July, Rhys describes being in a good place, with training well underway: "Training is currently very slow and methodical", he says. 

"It's always like this during build-up, to get movements feeling natural and locked into muscle memory - the last thing you want to do in the ring is overthink.

"We're upping the tempo slowly - intensification will take place a few weeks before."

"The last thing you want to do in the ring is overthink"

When asked about his style and strengths, Rhys describes his height and range as giving him an advantage over opponents. He also cited Joe Calzaghe as his favourite boxer.  

On Stockport, Rhys said he takes a piece of it everywhere he goes. "It could be entirely its own place - it has a strong identity independent of Manchester."

He will represent Stockport proudly on July 15.

Those who want to stay updated with Rhys' training and news can follow his Instagram page HERE.  

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stockport Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

Please consider following Stockport Nub News on Facebook or Twitter