Veteran Melton boxer turns pro at 38

Robinson reached the finals of the Novice ABA Championships when he fought for Melton Amateur Boxing Club EMN-160517-132907002

Veteran Melton fighter Michael Robinson has taken one last opportunity to turn professional.

The 38-year-old, who has made his name as a powerful puncher, has lined up his first paid bout as a boxer this summer.

He has signed a deal with promoter Russ Brown and his opening fight is on Saturday, July 2 at the Allington Leisure Complex, in Grantham.

Robinson said: “I’ve had a good record over the years and I’ve beaten some good fighters, but I’ve not made anything out of it.

Michael Robinson will make his professional boxing debut at the age of 38 EMN-160517-132842002

“I thought it was time to have a go at the professional game before I’m too old to do it.

“I’ve signed a really good deal and I’m confident I can do well.”

The father-of-one has been training hard with experienced instructor Mark Barlow at his Assassins Muay Thai Boxing Gym in Melton.

Robinson also has a good record as a Thai boxer, and as a boxer he reached the finals of the Novice ABA Championships when he fought for Melton Amateur Boxing Club.

Michael Robinson is building up for his first professional boxing bout at the Assassins Gym EMN-160517-132855002

But he knows a big step-up awaits him in the professional boxing ranks.

“You’ve got to be fit when you work with someone like Mark and I will be stepping up my training in the build-up to my first pro fight,” he said.

“Mark’s the best in my opinion and I’ve been with him for years. I also had great times with Melton ABC.

“There are some good strong kids out there and most of them will be a lot younger than me.

“But I’m a very, very fit 38-year-old and I believe I can do really well.

“I’ve only signed for a year because of my age and it may only last a year, but at least I can then say I’ve had a go.”