NXTGEN: Jordan Gill says he will win 'breakout' fight against Jason Cunningham
Friday 23 February 2018 14:34, UK
Jordan Gill is ready to step out of the Wincobank shadow and become the latest Sheffield success.
The unbeaten featherweight takes his biggest step so far on Sunday, when he faces former Commonwealth champion Jason Cunningham (23-4-KO6), on the NXTGEN bill in Manchester, live on Sky Sports.
Live JD Nxtgen Boxing
Gill (18-0-KO4) has been under David Coldwell's guidance since leaving the famous Dominic Ingle gym in the Sheffield suburb of Wincobank last summer, and believes making the short trip across the city will pay dividends.
"I just felt I didn't get any opportunities there, that's all," he told Sky Sports.
"I knew about Dave, I'd been to his gym to spar with Gavin McDonnell before his world title, so I'd seen how well he operates and I knew that was where I wanted to train.
"My style is similar, but I am not from Sheffield, I'm from Cambridgeshire and didn't box for a Sheffield amateur club. Certain elements of my game do look similar, but I wouldn't say I am a 'Wincobank fighter'.
"I am getting the opportunities now. I am being well managed and we are really working on the boxing fundamentals."
Sunday's fight is an official eliminator for the British featherweight title, held by Ryan Walsh, who retained the belt after a draw with Isaac Lowe in Manchester last weekend.
Gill is "looking beyond" the domestic level but admits Cunningham, who has held Commonwealth titles at two weights, is far and away his toughest opponent since turning pro in 2012.
"This is a breakout fight for me," he said.
"This is a very tough fight for anyone. I've got a lot of respect for Jason Cunningham.
"He's bringing the experience; he's seen it and done it, he's been a two-time Commonwealth champion and went 12 rounds with world champion Kal Yafai.
"He's tough, a good boxer and I am expecting him to be on his A-game.
"If you are going to get anywhere in this sport, you have to get past guys like Cunningham. I am not just looking at a British title, I am looking beyond that, and realistically I shouldn't be worried about him."
Watch Gill vs Cunningham, on the packed NXTGEN bill, starting at 7pm on Sunday March 25, live on Sky Sports Action.
