Hatton a big hit with aspiring amateurs

With just 13 professional fights, Campbell Hatton is an up and coming boxer gaining experience with every bout.

This Saturday, the 22-year-old nicknamed ‘Hurricane’ faces his fifth fight in just seven months when he takes on fellow Briton Jamie Sampson, on the undercard of Jack Catterall v Jorge Linares at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

“It’s exactly what I need at this stage of my career,” said Hatton.

“We’re just starting out and building on that experience and I’m reaping the rewards of it. I’ve just got to keep working hard and hopefully have a belt around my waist by the end of the year.”

While Campbell is still learning his ring craft, ahead of his next fight the Manchester boxer has turned from pupil to teacher as he passed on tips to a group of young amateurs.

The session at the Premier Boxing Club in Bolton was organised in partnership with Be The Change Youth Project, which aims to give youngsters a positive path in life.

“Not everyone’s going to be a champion boxer when they come in the gym, but the skills that you learn from being in a boxing gym will help you in your life anyway,” said Hatton.

“The hard work, discipline, dedication and just having that structure – it’ll help inside and outside the ring.”

Muhammad Fabio is an aspiring amateur and trains in the gym everyday. He says it’s helped to changed his life.

“You go from messing around at school, going out and partying – to more purpose and meaning in life,” said Fabio.

“You’re in the gym six, seven days a week training hard and you’re surrounded by good people on that same path.”

Be The Change Youth Project were recently awarded a grant from the UK Youth Fund – Cost of Living, which has allowed them to continue running to provide food, activities and transportation for young people – and to ensure that every young person, regardless of their financial situation, has access to the project.

Daniel Sukula, Chief Executive at Be The Change Youth Project, firmly believes in the vital role boxing plays in keeping young people on the straight and narrow.

“A lot of these young people, without boxing, it’s most likely that they’d be on the streets selling drugs or something,” highlighted Sukula.

“Bringing them into places like this just changes the narrative for them and helps them to have something positive in life.”

And on meeting Campbell Hatton:

“The visit was a great experience for our young people and those from Premier Boxing, who got the opportunity to speak to Campbell and get a few tips on boxing,” added Sukula.

“The trip also highlighted our work and impact in the community – and our partnership with Premier Boxing, who provide us with a facility to train our young people.”

“The youngsters also got the opportunity to be interviewed by ITV Granada. Again, another experience for those that with one day to become professional boxers.”