Hatton-trained former Irish international to fight tonight

Two middleweights of Irish descent trade leather at the Middleton Arena in Greater Manchester tonight.

One is Irish Tommy Carter, a debutant of Drogheda descent, who we spoke to earlier in the week.

The other is the 1(0)-0 Matty Mainwaring, a name which may be familiar to the eagle-eyed fans of lower league football.

26 year old Mainwaring is a former pro footballer, whose past clubs include Hull City, Stockport County, Chester, and Maccalsfield Town. In his younger days, the Salford-born midfielder also featured in an Ireland Under-19s squad which included the likes of Richie Towell, Greg Cunningham, and Conor Clifford.

However, despite his footballing skill, boxing was always Mainwaring’s passion and the long-time fan is now fulfilling his dream of being a professional fighter.

Despite no amateur, semi-pro, or white collar background, Mainwaring’s natural talent impressed former European champion Matthew Hatton who has taken the novice under his wing as a trainer-promoter.

In December Mainwaring had his first bout, winning a points decision over Victor Edagha (39:38) and now faces a huge test against the well-schooled Tommy Carter.

Best of luck to both Wild Geese tonight.