Cyrus Pattinson is on the path to redemption as he prepares to step back into the ring in Newcastle this Saturday, following a tumultuous period that saw him hit 'rock bottom'. A former top amateur boxer for GB, Pattinson was just one win shy of qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Games.
He turned pro in 2021 and initially enjoyed a successful run, winning his first six fights and establishing himself as a fan favorite in the North East. However, his career was derailed by a loss to Conah Walker in 2023, which left him without a promoter, manager, or trainer, and struggling with a severe eye injury that threatened to end his career. Pattinson has since found a new lease on life under the guidance of trainer Billy Nelson in Glasgow. After a trio of consecutive wins, he is set to face Tunde Segun Adeyemi at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday.
'I've got a tough opponent in front of me on Saturday night, but I'm always up for a challenge,' Pattinson said. 'I wear my heart on my sleeve and give it my all in every fight. My goal is to win, but I also want to entertain the crowd and give them their money's worth.' Pattinson's loss to Walker has been put into perspective, with Walker going on to achieve significant success, including a recent knockout victory over Olympic silver medalist Pat McCormack.
'I was hard on myself after that fight, but I know I'm capable of beating anyone,' Pattinson said. 'I'm just as good as the top names in the welterweight division, and I'm confident that I'll be back in the mix soon.' Pattinson's long-term goal is to target the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles, and his trainer Billy Nelson believes he has the potential to compete at the highest level.
'I'm delighted with Cyrus' progress,' Nelson said. 'He's a true professional, and I'm confident that he can challenge for domestic and European titles in the near future.' Pattinson remains focused on his upcoming fight, but he's also keeping his eyes on the bigger picture.
'I'm just taking things one step at a time, but I know I'm capable of winning the British and Commonwealth titles,' he said. 'I'm a fighter who always gives it my all, and I'm excited to see what the future holds.' If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or needs support, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit their website at www.samaritans.org.