Wigan boxer Andrew Fleming sets 2019 goals after latest success

Andrew Fleming won his final bout of the year on Saturday '“ and now he's set his sights on swooping championship gold in 2019.
Andrew Fleming (right) in action on Saturday night. Picture: Karen Priestley PhotographyAndrew Fleming (right) in action on Saturday night. Picture: Karen Priestley Photography
Andrew Fleming (right) in action on Saturday night. Picture: Karen Priestley Photography

Wiganer Fleming, who trains at Astley VIP with head coach Damian Jones, defeated Newark’s Fonz Alexander by unanimous points 40-36 in a 4x3 super lightweight clash at the University of Bolton Stadium.

The 25-year-old impressed as he won each round comfortably and extended his professional record to six wins and no losses.

And he was delighted to end 2018 in style.

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He said: “It was brilliant. I think it was my best performance yet against arguably my most toughest opponent.

“I’m more than happy with that– it was a good win, and a perfect way to end a great year for myself.

“I can now go and eat a bit and celebrate over Christmas and then in January get straight back on it in preparation for my first fight of next year.

“I really enjoyed Saturday. I feel like I’m improving with every fight and I already can’t wait to get back into the ring.

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“It was an amazing night. All my friends and family came and supported me and I really appreciate it all.

“It’s so overwhelming, I really can’t put it into words. The noise was fantastic, which really helped me push on. I can’t thank them enough.”

And Fleming now believes he is ready to make the step-up to six rounds and start to challenge for minor titles in 2019.

He said: “I’m more than ready for the step up. I feel like I’ve been ready for some time.

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“I want to get these six-round fights and move on to getting those title fights as well.

“We were hoping for six, but it didn’t work out with opponents, so we took the last four-rounder but at the beginning of next year, we will definitely be looking at those six-rounders.

“I want maybe one or two six-rounders, and then whatever Steve Wood thinks is best. He’s seen my performance, and I’m sure he’ll know I’m ready for six-rounders and then minor titles.

“I think I’ll need a few fights to fully adapt to six rounds, but after that, I’ll be aiming to upset people and win a few titles next year.”

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Fleming feels he can make the grade at six rounds and reach his full potential, if he is given more time to compete in the ring.

He said: “Four-rounders are good, but I think the step-up will help increase my progression massively. I’ll be able to compete over six rounds.

“I’ve always said I want to be in these top fights – I don’t want 20 odd wins against journeymen who come for a pay-day rather than a fight.

“I think the step up is needed, I’ll not be avoiding anyone. We’re looking to go a long way but doing it the old-fashioned way.

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“We want to fight the best, beat the best and show that we are the best.

“The crowd haven’t seen nothing yet. We’ll be in some tough fights but I’m more than ready for it. The competition will bring out the best of me. ”

Fleming thanked the following sponsors and his supporters for their support: Lean and Mean Café, IPD Decorating, MAG Metals, Q8 Sports Bar and Grill, Serene Spa, DPM Strength & Performance, S P Shaw Plastering, Pro Kicks Football Academy, Asbestos Control and Treatment Ltd, Head 2 Toe Massage, New Concept Security.