Cyrus Pattinson is mounting a determined comeback from a career low point as he prepares to step into the ring in Newcastle this Saturday. As a former top GB amateur boxer, Pattinson was on the cusp of qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Games, just one win shy of securing his place. After turning professional in 2021 and winning his first six fights, Pattinson established himself as a formidable welterweight and a fan favorite in the North East, selling tickets and thrilling audiences with his performances.
A notable victory over former British champion Chris Jenkins highlighted his potential, though a subsequent loss to Conah Walker in an all-action bout in 2023 sent his career into a tailspin. Pattinson found himself without a promoter, manager, or trainer, and was grappling with a severe eye injury that threatened to derail his career entirely.
The situation was bleak, with Pattinson describing it as 'rock bottom.' He confided in Sky Sports, 'It was that dark that I was just trying to find a way of getting through the day, surviving the day.' Amidst these challenges, Pattinson struggled with depression, often finding solace in long, solitary walks in the rain. However, he persisted, adopting a motto of 'one more day' to propel himself forward. Pattinson eventually found a new path forward under the guidance of trainer Billy Nelson in Glasgow, initially as a sparring partner for Jack Rafferty and then for world champion Lewis Crocker. Nelson has since taken Pattinson under his wing, and after three consecutive wins, Pattinson is set to face Tunde Segun Adeyemi at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday.
'I've got a good fighter, a dangerous fighter in front of us on Saturday night who's coming to win,' Pattinson acknowledged. 'I do enjoy getting stuck in, I do wear my heart on my sleeve and I'll always be that way.' Pattinson's loss to Walker now seems less significant, given Walker's continued success, including a recent knockout of Olympic silver medalist Pat McCormack in Monaco.
Pattinson reflected, 'I know I'm just as good if not better. I think it's only a matter of time before I'm back up in the mix. I know I'm capable of beating anybody.' Following his next fight, Pattinson intends to set his sights on the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles. His trainer, Billy Nelson, expressed confidence in Pattinson's abilities, stating, 'I'm very happy with Cyrus' improvement.
He's a consummate professional to be perfectly honest, both inside and outside the ring.' Pattinson remains focused on the present, with his eyes fixed on the upcoming fight, but he is also keenly aware of the opportunities that lie ahead. '100 per cent my focus is on Saturday,' he emphasized, 'but long-term, British and Commonwealth would be fantastic, I'd love those belts which I know I'm very capable of winning.' For those affected by similar issues, the Samaritans offer support on their free helpline, 116 123, or via their website, www.samaritans.org.