Cyrus Pattinson is on a mission to revive his career, following a tumultuous period that saw him hit rock bottom. The former top GB amateur boxer, who narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2016 Olympics, turned pro in 2021 and initially enjoyed a six-fight winning streak. However, a thrilling victory over ex-British champion Chris Jenkins was followed by a loss to Conah Walker in 2023, which sent Pattinson's career into a downward spiral.
Without a promoter, manager, or trainer, and struggling with a severe eye injury, Pattinson found himself in a bleak situation. "It was rock bottom," he confessed to Sky Sports. "I wasn't looking towards the next week or month; I was just trying to survive each day." Pattinson has since found a new lease on life, joining Billy Nelson's gym in Glasgow and racking up three consecutive wins. Now, he's set to face Tunde Segun Adeyemi at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday.
"I've got a tough opponent ahead of me, but I'm always up for a challenge," Pattinson said. "I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I'll give it my all to win." Pattinson's loss to Walker now seems more understandable, given the latter's recent success, including a knockout victory over Olympic silver medalist Pat McCormack. "I know I'm capable of beating anyone," Pattinson asserted.
"It's only a matter of time before I'm back in the mix, competing for titles." His trainer, Billy Nelson, shares Pattinson's confidence, stating, "I'm very happy with Cyrus' improvement. He's a consummate professional, and I believe he can compete at the domestic and European levels." Pattinson is focused on his upcoming fight but has his sights set on the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles.
"I'm keeping my options open, but my primary goal is to win on Saturday," he said. "Long-term, I'd love to win those titles, which I know I'm capable of achieving. I'm an asset to any promoter, and I'm always in entertaining fights." If you or someone you know is struggling with similar issues, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit their website at www.samaritans.org.