Cyrus Pattinson is clawing his way back from what he describes as "rock bottom" as he prepares for another chapter in his career renaissance, this time on home soil in Newcastle on Saturday. Once a standout amateur for Great Britain, Pattinson was merely one victory away from securing a place at the 2016 Olympic Games, a testament to his early promise and talent. After turning professional in 2021, he quickly amassed a six‑fight winning streak, earning a loyal following in the North East and establishing himself as a reliable ticket‑seller for local promoters.
His ascent, however, hit a snag when he faced former British champion Chris Jenkins in a thrilling bout that ended in victory, only to be followed by a bruising encounter with Conah Walker. The 2023 clash with Walker ended in a stoppage loss, and the defeat set off a cascade of setbacks. Pattinson found himself suddenly without a promoter, manager, or trainer, and he was also grappling with a serious eye injury that threatened to end his career altogether.
"It was rock bottom. I wasn't even looking towards next week and next month or the next fight. Sometimes it was that dark that I was just trying to find a way of getting through the day, surviving the day," Pattinson told Sky Sports. He went on to describe the mental toll: "There were so many bad and negative thoughts running through my head.
Those 24 hours sometimes felt like a lifetime. But I lived by the motto of one more day, getting through the day wherever I was." He added that during his darkest period he would walk 15‑20 miles in the rain each day, a routine he used to keep his mind steady while battling severe depression. "It felt like life and death every time," he admitted, noting that few people were aware of his struggle and that he had not been open about it at the time. "We got through and we're here," he said, indicating his resilience.
A turning point arrived when Pattinson linked up with Billy Nelson’s gym in Glasgow. Initially he was brought in as a sparring partner for Jack Rafferty, and later for world champion Lewis Crocker. Recognising his potential, Nelson took Pattinson under his wing, guiding him through a rigorous training regimen and helping him rebuild his confidence inside the ring. After three consecutive victories under Nelson’s tutelage, Pattinson is now set to fight Tunde Segun Adeyemi at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle.
"I've got a good fighter, a dangerous fighter in front of us on Saturday night who's coming to win," Pattinson declared. He emphasized his fighting spirit, saying, "I do enjoy getting stuck in, I wear my heart on my sleeve and I'll always be that way. If something's going easy, I'll put more effort in.
That's how I've been brought up and that's who I am. I put my heart and soul into everything I do. People get their money's worth and it's an entertainment business. I know it's my role as a fighter but first and foremost is always to win." In hindsight, his loss to Walker appears less damaging, especially as Walker has continued to thrive, most recently knocking out Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack in Monaco.
"I was giving myself a very hard time for that fight because I was nowhere near my best and I know what I'm capable of and I can beat all these names," Pattinson reflected. "He's gone on to be successful and be one of the bigger names in the welterweight division in the country. But 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." Looking beyond the upcoming bout, Pattinson has his sights set on the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles. His trainer, Billy Nelson, praised his progress, stating, "I'm very happy with Cyrus' improvement. He's a consummate professional, both inside and outside the ring.
He actually lives with me when he's up in Scotland for his 10‑12 week training camp. He's improved bundles as a fighter and after this fight I'd like to see him challenge for domestic level titles if not European. I'm more than confident that he can compete at that level." Pattinson echoed that ambition, saying, "I'm just keeping my eyes open and ears open for any opportunity that presents itself. 100 per cent my focus is on Saturday, but long‑term British and Commonwealth would be fantastic, I'd love those belts which I know I'm very capable of winning.
I'm an asset for any of the promoters. I'm always in entertaining fights. I'm a fantastic fighter and boxer. I sell, I've got a great following.
When I've already come from what I've come from and the things that I came through, I trust myself more than anyone else. As long as I stay true to me then that's all that matters." Pattinson's story is a powerful reminder of the mental and physical challenges athletes can face, and the importance of support networks in overcoming them. If you or someone you know is struggling with similar issues, help is available. Contact the Samaritans on their free helpline 116 123, or visit www.samaritans.org for more information.