TYRONE NURSE takes centre stage when he bids for the British Masters light-welterweight boxing title at the Sports Centre tonight.
But the 20-year-old prospect, who takes on Reading-based Albanian Ibrar Riyaz in his first scheduled 10 rounder, will also be keeping tabs on Huddersfield stablemates Jason McCalmon and Michael Smith.
Both are on debut, McCalmon taking on Doncaster’s James Tucker at super-middle and Smith tackling Lincoln southpaw Rick Boulter at light-middle.
McCalmon, 22, boxed for Rawthorpe as an amateur, winning 21 out of 32 bouts.
Smith, 18, fought for Cleckheaton, totting up 11 wins in 16.
Now, like Nurse and fellow Huddersfield 100% fighter Burt Warren, who takes on Skegness-based Craig Lawler at middleweight in his sixth bout, they are under experienced Linthwaite-based trainer Chris Aston.
Warren, 23, and McCalmon have been sparring with top Manchester amateur Hosea Burton and Nurse said: “Jason has been really impressive.
“He’s sparred with some of the top boys from Manchester and Liverpool and more than held his own, so it will be interesting to see how he goes tonight.
“We’ve got Michael on debut too, and with Burt shaping up well in training, we’re all hoping it will be another good night for Huddersfield.”
Former junior ABA finalist Nurse will be fighting for the 14th time since turning professional at 18.
He outpointed Riyaz, who stepped in after original opponent John Baguley withdrew, over four rounds at Shaw in May 2009.
Riyaz has four wins, 11 losses and a draw so far.
For ticket details, ring Aston on 07917 881114.
