Author Interview – Stuart Wheatman

Back in the July of 1973 there was a number of pivotal moments in history taking place – for instance France were performing nuclear testing in the Pacific at Nurruora Atoll; the USSR launched their Mars 4 space mission for a fly-by of the then mysterious red planet; America would see the passing after a long illness of stage play actor, the prolific William Russell Hardie, 68, wo appeared in many a Broadway production between 1929 and 1961.

On Tyneside, in the good ol’ UK, Paul McCartney was making an appearance at the Newcastle City Hall (10/07) and the Riverside branch of the Newcastle & North Shields Railway was withdrawn (23/07) to make way for Hadrian’s Way, now part of the C2C cycle route; and Stuart Wheatman was born…

A little over four decades later and Stu, as he is more commonly (often affectionately) known, is making his own little niche in the literary world, both writing and publishing relatively successful material for followers of specific genres of which sports and crime feature rather heavily, all for the greater good…

“I began writing in the mid-nineties following the completion of a Masters degree in Creative Writing at Sunderland University,” began Stuart.

“Everyone there wanted to be a film director or something like that and it wasn’t until I directed something myself I realised that I wanted to write instead, to be able to find and tell different stories.”

Since then he has written, and published, several notable literary pieces which include ‘Machine’ and the updated version ‘Cage Fighter,’ ‘King of Clubs,’ The Jam Unseen’ and ‘NME: From the Bender Squad to the Gremlins,’ among several other individual works and collaborations.

It was with the now-retired MMA/UFC former champion, Ian Freeman, where Wheatman’s insertion into the world of professional writing began to take off as ‘Machine’ was published in 2001 and the updated ‘Cage Fighter’ being released two years later, in 2003, affording the writer in an insight into a world previously unknown.

“When I began writing ‘Machine’ it was first pitched to Channel Four as a documentary which then began opening up new avenues, new possibilities, for a potential book,” continued Stuart when talking of his time with the former cage fighter.

“After his (Freeman’s) fight with Travis Fulton in the nineties, and seeing an article on it in the Sunday Sun (the north-east’s only Sunday newspaper), I saw the potential to create a story from it. Granted there was some initial wariness from Ian’s part before and whilst getting to know him, his family and background. I even did some training with him for a while which was good. It was certainly an eye-opener and gave me a foot in the door at the start and helped me to build a track record.”

It was also around the time when Wheatman became friends and, ultimately, a literary collaborator and business partner with fellow Tynesider, Steve Wraith (future ‘Author Interview’ this Summer). Wraith, a writer in his own right, and Wheatman have gone through the mill and back again with their extensive works and contacts often taking things to another level, as was seen with their respective works on The Krays, NME and The Sayers, neither afraid to court controversy.

“I met up with Steve whilst I was writing ‘Machine’ and introduced him and Ian to each other; Steve was kind enough to take Ian to the funeral of Charlie Kray and then attended the book launch in Sunderland,” continued Stuart.

“It was around this time that he would approach me about his own book, ‘The Geordie Connection’ (published in 2002) which was great for me as I was already feeling on top of the world with the success of my literary debut. I liked telling that unusual story that nobody knows anything about and became a crime writer through it, kind of fell into it all really.

“The basis was there already for it which helped massively and it was just a case of talking to and getting to know people, knowing how they tick. The Geordie Connection was then updated and released as part of a ‘Villains’ box set (through Pan Publishing) which was brilliant and sold more than twenty thousand copies. It was good for us both (Steve and Stuart) to be recognised alongside the other titles in that genre.”

    

The Krays has played a big part of the literary nuances of both Wheatman and Wraith, the pair combining with both ‘The Geordie Connection’ and the more recent masterpiece ‘The Krays Behind Bars,’ the latter being published in late 2015. Around those however Stuart has found himself often immersed in something and the writing of ‘King of Clubs’ (published in n2005) played a pivotal role in his own mind-set.

This was something different in itself as it looked at the life of actor, rave promoter and the running of that ‘One Nation’ on the London scene, or as the book was subtitled ‘Sex, Drugs and Thugs’ and looked at the different entities which ruled the life of Terry ‘Turbo’ Stone, thus adding a fresher string to the Wheatman bow.

“Writing the ‘King of Clubs’ was more a case of finding myself as a crime writer really. I had heard of him and knew much of his gangland connections, his business nous and entrepreneurship and there became a few different dimensions to it. Tony lived in Ascot and part-owned a restaurant there; it was like going to a different world and I suppose I kind of became part of the family.

“It’s from projects like this that I’ve found that you definitely have to establish a level of trust with your subject first and foremost and then to keep that going. It’s always good to get that instant respect and know that what’s being said is handled appropriately.”

“Personally, and professionally, it’s been a great few years. I’ve always known Steve and we’ll both work on practically anything. When working with anyone, starting a new, working relationship it’s getting to know someone new again but, with Steve, we know each other inside out, know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and we both want and expect from each other.”

Throughout all the writing, and the day jobs, as well as occasional night ones, Stuart set up Tonto Publishing in 2004 which ran for nearly eight years with relative amounts of success including, prior to its disbanding, cracking the American market. Then, after a brief hiatus in the publishing market, but still writing of course, Stuart teamed up with Steve (Wraith) on a more permanent basis, creating Mojo Risin’ Publishing who released their first two publications towards the end of 2015 with astounding success – ‘The Sayers: Tried and Tested at the Highest Level’ and ‘Pavel is a Geordie’ taking their respective literary markets by storm.

“The setting up of Tonto Publishing was done due to a lack of opportunities in the market; I’d met my then business partner on the Creative Writing MA, both non-fiction writers and frustrated at that.

“The first to come from there was a short stories book which served its purpose as it gained the belief of those that were involved at the time. We began looking at subjects that were left of centre, the celebrities that you maybe wouldn’t think of doing something on or reading about. Towards the end of all that though there was some annoyance for a number of reasons even if it did lead to distribution in the USA.

“I always knew that I’d carry on working with Steve though and, with the Sayers book it was quite organic really and evolved from there, a combination that seemed to happen at the right time having already discussed it in the past; overall it was good for us to launch Mojo Risin with the Sayers and Pav books.

“We are both massive fans of The Doors and the name relates to an anagram of the name ‘Mr Mojo Risin’ which originates there through Jim Morrison, so, having already discussed setting something up and found that common ground so it was nice that we were able to put that reference there. With it being a new company, and our respective backgrounds within the region then we can build something up this year, produce titles of interest over the next few years and there is a lot developing behind the scenes because of it.”

    

The past few years has been something of a literary rollercoaster which had a somewhat tragic finale to 2015 following the passing of Pavel Srnicek shortly after Mojo Risin published his book, ‘Pavel is a Geordie.’ Tragedy however can bring further success and, with the releases of ‘NME: From the Gremlins to the Bender Squad’ (2013) and a trio of books in 2015 with ‘The Krays Behind Bars,’ ‘The Sayers: Tried and Tested at the Highest Level’ and ‘Pavel is a Geordie,’ the latter seeing Stuart a part of the publishing team, it bodes well going into a new year.

“After finishing The Geordie Connection we began to discuss both Sayers, and Newcastle hooligans,” Stu continued.

“The problem was though we didn’t really have an in with any of them at the time. We did some research but it led to nothing initially, until a couple of years later anyway. Steve (Wraith) though is the kind of person who loves meeting these people and forging relationships with them and, as our own writing relationship has developed I’ve found that it’s good for him to do that, I just jigsaw it all together at the end.

“With the NME book it was something else. Getting to know all those different personalities and there was well over forty that we spoke to. I am glad that it was us who finally did the book though and got to tell that story. It certainly tells a social history of Newcastle as well as looking at the mind-set and psychology of the person as well.

“With the NME story there’s definitely still a lot of legs in it and we’ll be looking at some sort of film to go alongside it as well. The DVD, with this and The Sayers book, was a visual concept to accompany it and was something we had an interest in doing as more a side project than anything and we put it out there to see what the reception would be like.”

As for 2016 and beyond; well it’s all about causing a ripple in literary waters, and a big one at that with Stuart adding: “We are in a nice position and testing the water, kind of how it was done with Tonto Publishing beforehand, built with the spirit of that as we turn what effectively was a hobby, into a job more than anything, we’ve certainly not jumped in.

“We’re looking at four titles this year, quirky stories in specific genres as we find the right audiences. It is nice though to be able to have some fun within a job and there’s no real stress emanating from it for we can do things as we want to do them – we didn’t need to do it, we wanted to do it.”

His biography on Percy Publishing can be found HERE

Read the piece on Mojo Risin for Northern Insight magazine (p90) HERE

If you would like to be a part of ‘Author Interviews’ please email me via petermann78@hotmail.com

Review of 2015

What can be said about the year that is soon to finish?

A lot has happened, personally and professionally and, looking back on it all makes one realise just how good it not only was, but can be in the future. On a professional level there were a lot of meet and greets, a lot of interviews, a lot of work and, having worked with and met individuals who, at times, I never imagined I would have, its been an amazing rollercoaster.

Picking any highlights from the year gone by would be difficult for so much has been accomplished and, although you might say its been the same as previous years, it hasn’t. Finishing the Journalism Diploma was, in all honesty, a difficult thing to do for underlying issues meant the outcome was not what was hoped but so much was learnt and I’m sure I will achieve what I set out to do. I’m not the type of person to let it slide either and, one way or another, accomplishment will be achieved and I’ll carry on regardless.

Throughout the past twelve months work with Relentless Promotions has been paramount and I believe I grasped the opportunities presented which has seen interviews with a plethora of names such as Stephen Tompkinson and Rick Buckler, Mark Brzezicki and Bumblefoot, Anthony Joshua and Brian Kilcline, Brian Anderson, Graham Onions and Eddie Hearn to name but a few, the list is rather endless. to pick a highlight from those names alone would be difficult for they all carry their own meaning however, as a lifelong Guns ‘n’ Roses fan then March and the arrival of Bumblefoot, ably supported by Twister, was an experience in itself.

Twister, they’re a great bunch and deserving of a mention having become close to the Stoker family over the past 12-18 months and next year is already shaping up to be a good one for both parties of that I’m sure. Wherever it takes us we’ll get to where we want to be, just believe.

The second half of the year saw a production of content for Michael Grahamslaw and his Northern Insight Magazine, fantastic publication which highlights the business and leisure industry in the region. There have been some interesting reads in there over the past six months and I’m hoping that, with the addition of Mojo Risin’ Publishing to the first issue of the New Year, we have done the job that we (Steve Wraith, Danny Cox, Stuart Wheatman and I) have set out to achieve. The New Year looks set to be a big one with a combination of talents at hand and was shown at the Xmas Drinks Reception at the Crown Plaza Hotel earlier this month when finally catching up with PR guru, Claire Barber, and making many a new contact including the wonderful Karen Kevelighan, Lu O’Rourke and the gentlemen of Lynch Advertising (see images below).

Geordie Roar at the Metro Radio Arena in early April was easily a standout occasion as thousands of fight fans turned out to see a vintage Jon-Lewis Dickinson, a stylish Anthony Nelson, and Joshua of course. It was a night of nights and the hard work which people such as myself, Steve, Danny and Andy Thompson had worked hard for long before it actually happened and our presence ringside was testament to that fact. It showed that perseverance in the fight game pays off if you stick at it long enough and, who knows, 2016 will see the return of that Matchroom bandwagon.

May also saw the end of an era as the famous and mighty Hetton Lyons Sunday League Football Club called it a day. It’s been an honour and absolute privilege getting to know the lads in recent years so it was felt that they got the send off they deserved. In doing that final piece on them it ensured their names will be forever written in sporting folklore.

April also saw my announcement of the first cycling sportif in Weardale as ‘The Roof of England’ was promoted for the first time in both the local press, and Sportif Magazine (event is now an annual one with the next being 28 August 2016). The ABA’s featured yet again as they had two years previously which led onto the Tri-Nations tournament, successful times for regional amateur boxers. There was also a first venture into writing about Kettlebell competitions with Ste Gordon and company in Darlington. Surprise inclusions was that of Ladies Boxing with the Lambton Street lasses trailblazing on top of the young guns of Georgia O’Connor and Golden Girl Megan Bainbridge from Brandon who set a very high barrier.

Further surprise arrived between October and December with some crime journalism with The Krays and Sayers taking precedent, interesting to say the least. October also saw a delving into video journalism as Steve Wraith launched an official boxing promotion in Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead to which saw several live outings around the ‘Sudden Impact’ show including an in-ring showing with Andrew Buchanan in front of a few hundred or more people. It has been an honour getting to know the Buchanan’s and to be able to conduct the first, and last, interviews of his second run in the professional game was both an honour and privilege.

The past couple of months has been pretty much a rollercoaster what with The Krays book launches and subsequent interview with actor Kevin Leslie, then interviews with Stephen Sayers and Pavel Srnicek around their respective book launches. There was also a published interview with Glenn McCrory as he swapped the ring for the stage appearing in Daphne du Maurier’s West End stage production of ‘The Birds’ and now he’s starring in his own play about his life story and is joining myself, Steve and legendary sports journalist John Gibson in setting up the Newcastle Sporting Club Ex-Boxers Association.

I suppose you also can’t forget Paul Gascoigne and Alan Shearer at the Tyne Theatre, South Durham ABC’s successful venture to South Africa, or even the ‘Save the DLI Campaign’ which is still going strong and saw my interview familial descendants of Victoria Cross recipients, special moments indeed; and, as we wind through December it’s been simply a case of renewing old acquaintances and making sure those friendships, and work contacts, are built on solid foundations for, although tomorrow may be another day, you will always need someone there to help guide the way.

The review would not be complete however with a mention for two extremely wonderful, caring and giving ladies in Christine Stephenson and Kelly Best of North East Hearts with Goals and for whom their James Bond-themed Winter Ball was everything and more. I will most certainly continue to support their cause during the New Year and beyond, they deserve it.

I have been fortunate throughout 2015 to have had a select few individuals assist professionally and I will continue to be grateful for that, so, to the likes of Steve Wraith and Danny Cox, Andrew Burton, Kathryn MacColl, Katrina Brown and Teri Galloway, Mike Grahamslaw and Gary Bunting, and one of my oldest friends, mentor and eternal guide, Amanda, I can offer nothing but thanks.

Interviews in 2015 include – Brian Anderson (Photographer/Journalist); Buster Bloodvessel (Musician); Mark Brzezicki (Musician); Jade Byrne (Actress); Rick Buckler (Musician); Craig Conway (Actor); Daniel Cox (Promoter/Writer); Amanda Coulson (Sports); Lloyd Ellett (Sports); Martin Hardy (Journalist/Author); Andy Hamilton (Sports); Vicky Hawkins (Actress); Eddie Hearn (Sports Promoter); Anthony Joshua (Sports); Brian Kilcline (Sports); Christian Kist (Sports); Tommy Langford (Sports); Kevin Leslie (Actor); Jamie Lewis (Sports); Longsands (Musicians); Glenn McCrory (Sports/Actor); Anthony Nelson (Sports); Graham Onions (Sports); Scott Quigg (Sports); Brian Rose (Sports); Robin Reid (Sports); Stephen Sayers; Ron Thal aka Bumblefoot (Musician); Robert Thornton (Sports); Stephen Tompkinson (Actor); Twister (Musicians); Harry Ward (Sports); Stuart Wheatman (Author/Publisher); Steve Wraith (Promoter/Author/Publisher).

All that’s left to say now is that 2015 has been an amazing year, a lot has been achieved and expectations have most certainly been surpassed and now its onto the next thing as I look at officially setting myself up under the banner ‘Inside Mann: The Future of Sports Media Management’ which will provide different media services for sports, music and regional charities (email petermann78@hotmail.com) and I will continue to work on the book I am writing entitled ‘The Rise of North East Boxing.’

Newcastle Sporting Club set to launch Ex-Boxers

With professional boxing on Tyneside taking a back seat until the New Year the timing is perfect for the launch of a new ex-boxers association – Newcastle Sporting Club Ex-Boxers Association will therefore meet, for the first time, at noon on Sunday 6 December at the Black Bull on Barrack Road.

The quartet of Glenn McCrory (former world champion, president), Steve Wraith, (businessman, author, professional promoter, vice-president), John Gibson (journalist, chairman) and Peter Mann (Media & PR Officer, secretary) are all at the forefront of this new association in which Steve, having already launched ‘Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead,’ offers all members discounts on tickets for all his sporting events .

As a former world champion and a pundit with Sky Sports for the past 25 years Glenn McCrory said: “I’m really honoured to be the president of this new ex-boxers association and it’s definitely something which is long overdue.

“Everyone is welcome to the Black Bull and it’ll be great to be able to have a regular catch-up with friends, and fans, across the regions fight scene and I encourage everyone who has a love for the sport in the area to come along and join in what is going to be some fun times.”

Association secretary, and someone who is close to the ground on north-east boxing, Peter Mann, added: “In doing this we can keep the memories of the past alive and integrate them with the present and the future of the sport, not just on Tyneside, but across the region.

“Members will not only get discounts on Steve’s shows but we’ll also be producing a monthly newsletter and Tyneside boxing magazine which will be available to them as well as the usual perks – and who knows, you may even get a chance of a burger with Glenn!”

If anyone is interested in joining the Newcastle Sporting Club Ex-Boxers Association please contact the secretary, Peter Mann via petermann78@hotmail.com or 07596657371.

 

 

Wraith adds managerial string to boxing bow

 

Heading into his fourth year on the pro boxing circuit Newcastle promoter, Steve Wraith, has decided to up the ante and take out his managerial licence, and, in doing so, announces the launch of Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead to front his new found boxing operations.

Wraith, who first cut his teeth in a co-promotion with Phil Jeffries at Dunston’s Lancastrian Suite in March 2012 as well as doing similar with the same promoter at the 2014 Summer Rumble, has already put on eleven solo offerings of his own – and it should have been more.

Now, with the launch of Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead and his taking a managerial licence the hope is to push things to another level and make 2016 the best yet, even though there has been some bumps in the road.

He said: “I’m coming to the end of my third year as a professional promoter and I’ve enjoyed it; the pros have outweighed the cons, the positives over the negatives and, although we are not going to make millions, we can do a good job.

“The downside I guess is that the rising costs will, more often than not, drive people out, but, with the help of our two main sponsors, Grosvenor Casino and Ideala Health, I’m now able to sit down and plot the progression over the next three years.”

With several things in the pipeline Steve is far from in a hurry to make that first signing and is also in talks with several big names sponsors that will ensure the New Year starts with a bang. And, although going it alone come January, he has the in-house media operations placed for a productive future with Peter Mann continuing as Head of Media & PR, Andy Thompson with photography and Alexander Henderson of H & E Media providing the video-graphic support in which to launch PBNG TV.

“The dream is still the same for us and that’s to find that someone who can come through the ranks and be like (Kell) Brook, (Ricky) Hatton, (Ricky) Burns,” continued Steve.

“We also have our own big attractions in (Anthony) Nelson) and (Jon-Lewis) Dickinson to whom (Eddie) Hearn is interested in and talking about putting them on his shows but for me, I am going it alone in the New Year and I’m forever thankful of everything Danny Cox has done and the doors he’s helped open up.

“We’ll still be doing some events together but the boxing I’ll be doing myself and, with setting up PBNG and all that comes with it – media, website, YouTube channel, we can promote it all and be able to give the sponsors, and the fighters, more than we have done previously.”

Steve’s Head of Media & PR, Peter Mann, knows only too well what it’s like behind the scenes having not only been on the boxing rollercoaster with him from the start, but having produced written content in one form or other for some eight years now.

The next three years is a journey they are looking forward to producing and Peter added: “It’s been a rollercoaster that’s for sure, plenty of ups and downs, but we wouldn’t change it, it adds to the experience we have gained.

“The extension of the media side is good news for everyone and shows that we are not only here to stay, but are more than capable of providing that little extra when needed, and I know there’ll be more to come over the coming months, and years. We all know what we are doing and we’re enjoying every step, every punch, every blood, sweat and tear.”

For Steve the work behind the scenes has been both paramount, and non-stop in recent months; visiting gyms, amateur shows, meeting fighters and trainers, but it’s something he loves doing and knows the need for it.

“I’m only too happy to speak to fighters and help to put them out there but I’m in no rush even though I am in preliminary talks with a couple I want to be able to establish ourselves, put the whole show on the map and provide all round value for money and, although there’s a vague possibility we’ll be out again this year we are already pencilled in for February.”

Any fighters wishing to speak to Steve Wraith about his managing them can do so via email steve.wraith@gmail.com; the new website for PBNG can be found at www.proboxingnewcastlegateshead.com (website under construction)

El Cannon fires last round as Buchanan bows out

“I’ve just about done what I wanted to come back and do,” says an upbeat but understandably disappointed Andrew Buchanan when the news came out about his retirement from boxing due to an ongoing injury to his left eye.

Although he never quite reached the heights he would have loved to, West Denton’s super middleweight Andrew Buchanan, unbeaten since his return to the sport in 2013, has now retired knowing that he gave his all, and had a blast doing so.

“I’ve had the last few weeks to think about it all but with the ongoing injury to my left eye, and on the doctors’ advice, we know that one shot could mean that I lose my sight,” Buchanan said of the decision.

“Although investigations are still ongoing I’m not prepared to take the risk and my family are more important. I’m probably the unluckiest boxer in the region and my career has been fraught with something whether injuries pull-outs or paperwork but I’ve done my part and done the best I possibly could with everything whether in the amateurs or pros.”

A successful amateur career, under the guidance of mentor Ronnie Rowe, Buchanan would be seen tearing things up alongside the likes of David Haye and Carl Froch in the much sought after England vests and would be found training alongside then-professionals John Davison, Paul Charters, Paul King and Manny Burgo.

The decision to turn professional in early 2000 would be a hard one though and, with his now wife Jen by his side, they made the sacrifice together. “I’d been to a lot of the gyms around Tyneside in the early days and I do kind of wished that I had stayed as an amateur a bit longer.

“Within a few fights though I was knocking on the doors of the top twenty in the country and then there was some contractual issues as my brother (Paul fought between 2001 and 2009 winning eight of his twelve pro bouts) and I were suddenly benched,” began Andrew.

Initially with Frank Warren the Tynesider would appear, once, with Tommy Conroy, his only defeat, in 2002, against Jason Collins, as illness took hold and hospitalisation ensued meaning a spell on the side-lines.

Although bigger nights were to come over a decade later Buchanan came back for one night with Gus Robinson’s in Hartlepool. It was time which, other than with Rowe, he regards in high esteem.

“My brother Paul was at the Robinson’s gym along with Nigel Wright at the time and I went there for a brief comeback,” he added.

“The fight was live on Sky Sports against Howard Clarke but it was also around the time our Abbey was born and I had to go out and get a real job. It was a tough decision but one that just had to be made.”

Nearly eight years later, another child (son Cole was added to the young family), Andy and Jen were sitting down talking about a possible ring return, having bore witness to Steve Wraith’s ‘Return of the Cash’ show at the O2 Academy.

(Above, Buchanan at a press conference ahead of a Steve Wraith promotion on Tyneside; below, Buchanan in familiar action pose striking that long right on an unsuspecting opponent)

Wraith, who has supported boxing both Tyneside and beyond for some time holds nothing but respect and admiration for Buchanan. He said: “It was fantastic that I could give him his second debut.

“He’s a great boxer, technically gifted and has the heart of a lion and, although he started off well on his return politics in the area have worked against him, as have injuries and opponent withdrawals. To face O’Neill would have been a great swansong but that was sadly not meant to be.

“His decision to retire is a blow for regional boxing as he’s been about a while and comes from a boxing family and I’m sure he’ll stay in the sport just like Charters and Innes, Jarrett and Potter have done.”

“Attending that show gave me the kick up the backside I needed,” Andrew continued.

“The last few years have been great and to be able to experience it all fully means a lot to me. Facing (Jonson) McClumpha taught me so much about myself, my abilities and that I was actually able to go in there and dig deep, go the trenches and survive. I broke a few ribs and my hands that day but it was worth it; that and winning the Masters title (against Gary Boulden on Mark Clauzel’s show in December 2013) in Newcastle was just amazing.”

Although he never got the main title shot he so richly deserved after an Area title shot was cruelly pulled from his grasp due to injury to his opponent and he was due to have an English title eliminator before his own injury curtailed another promising career, Buchanan’s last fight was at the top of the bill in Gateshead at the Matchroom Fight Pass show in February where he defeated Mark Till on points.

(Above, a fight of the year contender against Jonson McClumpha; below, Buchanan signs for Fighting Chance and returns to the mentorship of former amateur coach Ronnie Rowe, where it all began)

The fight with McClumpha, at the 2013 Summer Rumble was, without question, a contender for fight of the year and the Sunderland fighter said of his time in the ring with Buchanan that: “This is a lonely sport anyway but I would have liked to have settled the score with Andy.

“It was a cracking fight but definitely not a one you want to be in every week and I’ve not had another like it since. It was exciting and I enjoyed it a lot and I really thought I had done enough. He brought his best and it was great for the fans – I’ve nothing but respect for Andy as he is a true gentleman, a fantastic boxer and he would have been capable of winning the British title, I gained a true friend that day.”

A number of people have been by his side throughout his career, notably Ronnie Rowe at the start, Rowe and Lewis Pendleton were there at the end; his wife Jen has played a massive part over the past fifteen years, Tyneside promoter Steve Wraith gave him his second debut and Micky Duncan was there to help train him through some really good times.

The final word on Andrew Buchanan’s career should belong to his ‘long-suffering’ wife, Jen, who with the rest of the family have supported ‘el cannon’ through thick and thin.

“It’s been hard but we knew what we were letting ourselves in for and have supported him to the hilt,” she said.

“Things were starting to look up for him but it’s not worth it (the risk of the injury) and he’s got us to think of as well. It’s just a massive shame and maybe he could have had one last shot but he’s seeming calm and more mellowed out now so it’s time for us to one little, happy family – and I’m glad we’ve got him back.”

 

Summer Showdown Delayed

 

Summer Showdown on hold till August 

(Image courtesy of Singe Vert Photography)

Steve Wraith and Relentless Promotions this evening announce that their ‘Summer Showdown I,’ scheduled for Friday July 24, has had to be put back four weeks.

 

The decision has been made between Steve Wraith, Danny Cox, Ronnie Rowe and Lewis Pendleton to move the show from next weekend to the new date of Friday August 21 due to minor injuries to key fighters on the card.

 

We always like to give value for money at our shows and felt that, due to these unforeseen circumstances, it was best to put the show back a few weeks. Tickets purchased for the original date will be valid for the new date and new tickets are on sale now from the Official Wraith Promotions Website.

 

Unfortunately this means that the show announced for September 18 has been postponed due to this being moved and there being little time between the two dates to prepare and give fans what they deserve – value for money.

 

Further information will be available in due course and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

         

 

Wraith afforded ‘top twenty’ promoters tag

Wraith celebrates Summer Showdown announcement with ‘Top 20 Promoter’ tag

(Published in Newcastle Chronicle, Thursday 11 June 2015, p71)

On the back of the announcement by Relentless Promotions that they will be showcasing the ‘Summer Showdown I’ at the Gateshead Academy for Sport a global boxing advisor put out a comprehensive, and detailed, list of the top 50 promoters in Britain.

With a minimum of ten bouts on the bill including a potential big fight for Andrew Buchanan and essentially make-or-break outings for Lewis Scott and Paul O’Hagan all from the Fighting Chance stable the number 20 placing of Tyneside promoter, Steve Wraith, should not be sniffed at.

“Granted it has been put out there for debate purposes but it’s an interesting read,” began Steve.

“The top ten are there on merit and, in honesty, would be easy to pick with (Eddie) Hearn obviously the top promoter, he had a great work ethic.”

The top five is quite predictably a who’s who of professional boxing – Eddie Hearn, Francis Warren, Barry McGuigan, Dennis Hobson and Steve Goodwin, all of whom made big strides during 2014 on which the list is based.

McGuigan may be the surprise entrant in that top five, as is Nisse Sauerland at ten, even David Coldwell (12) Mickey Helliet (24) Ricky Hatton (28) and Tommy Gilmour (41) have differing placings.

“I was happy to see myself placed at number twenty as we’ve worked hard and done our best over the past three years,” Steve continued.

“More so with the shoestring budget but, when you’re working alongside Fighting Chance then we’ve definitely done something on Tyneside. Maybe if someone else had compiled the list I’d be elsewhere but I’d still be delighted with any placing in the top 50.”

London-based boxing advisor and web editor at ES (Ellie Seckbach) News, Matt Hamilton provided insight behind the production of the power list. The primary factor for which was the revenue brought in, and the number of shows produced throughout last year.

“Yes there were some surprises in there, even to me,” began Matt.

“I was actually contacted by a German company earlier this year to provide analysis of the promotional scene in the country so this was a common sensical list of those promoters for whom young, upcoming fighters can go to, make them more aspirational.

“Overall though there’s not much differentiation once you break away from the top three to five promoters. There is a model in there though, a plan for promoters to work to and be able to progress in the sport to.

“The application of both mathematics and logic to the sport, whether promoter or fighter, is something that interests and I hope to be able to advise and consult both sides of the sport, fighters and journalists alike.”

Either way, for Steve Wraith and Relentless Promotions it’s welcomed news as they head into the second half of the fight year.

Alongside the Fighting Chance trio will be a few possible debutants as well as Anthony Hardy, Liam Cammock, Tom Whitfield, Owen Raine and headlined by non-other than ‘Tasty’ Travis Dickinson as he looks to push aside that loss to Chadlioui at the Arena in April.

“We can certainly move forwards with this under our caps and it gives us something to aim for and I’m there on merit really,” Wraith admitted.

“It’s also nice to see Phil in there, even if it’s lower than expected. He gave me the leg-up in boxing and we continue to work together. He does his job for Sunderland and I do mine for Newcastle and Gateshead – it’s also nice to see Newcastle finish above Sunderland in a league table again.”

Matt Hamilton’s in-depth piece on the ‘Top 50 Promoters’ can be found at Boxing Tonight whereas tickets for the ‘Summer Showdown I’ are on sale now from all fighters and Wraith Promotions priced at £35 standard and £75 ringside; VIP packages are also available.

The show is sponsored by Grosvenor Casino Newcastle, and Ideala Health, proud sponsors of Relentless Promotions and professional boxing in the north east.

 

 

Official Friday Fight Night Preview

Friday Fight Night – The Preview 

(Images courtesy of Singe Vert Photography and Sainsbury Photography)

Tonight at the Lancastrian Suite, Dunston, Relentless Promotions proudly bring you an evening of professional boxing. Four top quality bouts followed by entertainment by the talented Jaynie Mackenzie.

**GROSVENOR CASINO – OFFICIAL AFTER-PARTY: Tonight, after the boxing and entertainment, all fighters, management, coaching staff and patrons are invited to the GROSVENOR NEWCASTLE for the official after-party.

On production of your fight ticket (so don’t lose it) at reception you will receive a free bet and receive at your tables an official Grosvenor Casino voucher booklet to use on the night.

Please remember your photographic ID and if driving, register car at reception (please do not drink and drive)** 

Steve Wraith and Danny Cox of Relentless Promotions, in association with Fighting Chance Promotions, are proud to bring you, the north east public, Friday Fight Night.

Jeff Saunders (Sedgefield, 1-0-0; 1), Sam Best (Newcastle, 1-0-0; 1), Steve Cooper (Darlington, 2-0-0), Lewis Scott (Newbiggin, 5-1-0; 4) and Basi Razaq (Newcastle, 3-0-1; 3) all take to the ring for bouts of scintillating, stoppage-potential, professional boxing.

 

The Running Order

Basi Razaq (Newcastle, 3-0-1; 3) vs. Danny Little (Driffield, 3-7-1) Super Welterweight 4 x 3

In the first of two super welterweight contests on the card Newcastle’s Basi Razaq looks to put the disappointment of the draw he collected in his last outing against William Warburton to one side with success here tonight.

His opponent, from Driffield in nearby Yorkshire may bring a losing record but of his seven losses, including his last five straight, has only been stopped once. That came in the fifth round against the current, undefeated British and European lightweight champion, Terry Flanagan.

Razaq though knows all about stoppage wins having won his first three via this method in a blistering start to the pro ranks. His last outing may have been a draw but he remained undefeated and a win of any sort tonight will go a long way for the 23-year-old Ringstar Promotions-managed fighter.

Lewis Scott (Newbiggin, 5-1-0; 4) vs. Simone Lucas (Nottingham, 7-25-4; 1) Super Welterweight 6 x 3

The second super welterweight contest see’s the Newbiggin Sensation, Lewis ‘Too Hot’ Scott make his eagerly anticipated return from injury. At Resurrection (November 2014) Scott suffered a shoulder injury in a stoppage loss to Scotland’s Rhys Pagan having won five on the bounce since he debuted, in emphatic fashion in Leeds with a second round KO of Martyn King (May 2013).

Scott’s opponent will pose a challenge for his ring return when facing Burundi-born, Nottingham based Simone Lucas over six rounds. Lucas has won his last two including claiming the British Masters bronze light middleweight strap in his last outing with a PTS8 success over Wayne Reed. Lucas can also count Scott Moonan and Adil Anwar as scalps in his near ten year pro career.

Now part of the Fighting Chance Promotion stable in nearby Felling, Scott will be hoping to give Lucas a ‘Too Hot’ reception when they enter the fray tonight.

(Interval)

Jeff Saunders (Sedgefield, 1-0-0; 1) vs. Ivailo Boyanov (0-0-1) Super Lightweight 4 x 3

What a debut for Sedgefield’s next big thing.

In front of a sell-out Metro Radio Arena, live on Sky Sports, and making his professional debut for Matchroom, 23-year-old ex-parachute regiment Jeff Saunders announced himself to the world of professional boxing with a scintillating bang.

It took just 140 seconds for Saunders to dismiss Sandor Racz in unforgiving fashion, putting his opponent on the canvass twice before the referee called a halt to proceedings. He, and his increasing following, will be expecting more of the same when he takes to the ring for his second outing in a matter of weeks.

The opponent for Saunders will be a challenge though. Having travelled from Bulgaria, Boyanov drew his debut in Sofia over four rounds; the duo, Saunders and Boyanov, both have successful amateur backgrounds in their native lands, winning national titles and representing their country.

   

Sam Best (Newcastle, 1-0-0; 1) vs. Steve Cooper (Darlington, 2-0-0) Light Heavyweight 4 x 3

As 50/50 contests go this one is as intriguing as they come, a tasty Tyne-Tees derby to wrap the evening’s proceedings up.

Newcastle’s Sam Best all-but-owned the unlicensed scene before taking the plunge and turning professional in early March claiming an emphatic first round stoppage of his own, in 77 seconds, against the visiting Haidar Sadik. He states he will look for same tonight against Darlington’s Steve Cooper.

‘Cooperman’ will be making his third appearance on a Relentless Promotions show having made both outings to date, victories over four rounds, at the Gateshead Leisure Centre. He debuted last year under the guidance of Mike Hall having spent some time out of the sport before making the decision to turn.

 

With entertainment provided by Jaynie Mackenzie and the Grosvenor Casino after-party it will be a night to suit all clientele, and not a one to be missed.

The show, sponsored by Grosvenor Casino, Ideala Health and Portland Consultants sees the doors open at 6pm and the first bout scheduled for 8pm. Tickets available from the W and all fighters on the card.

        

County Durham duo ready for Fight Night

Duo ready to roll in Dunston

Unbeaten duo Jeff Saunders and Steve Cooper are ready to put their respective unbeaten records to the test when they appear at Friday Fight Night in Dunson on May 1.

Darlington pugilist, Cooper, who has won both his outings on a Relentless Promotions stage , returns to the fray for the third time and will be taking a step up, a gamble, when he opposes Tyneside’s Sam Best in an intriguing Tyne-Tees derby.

Saunders meanwhile is coming straight off the back of an explosive debut in front of a near 7,000 crowd at the Metro Radio Arena and, having taken care of Sandor Racz in just 140 seconds he wants more.

(Darlington’s Steve Cooper, above, and Sedgefield’s Jeff Saunders, below, are ready to roll at Dunston’s Lancastrian Suite for Friday Fight Night on May 1)

Cooper’s offerings to date have both traversed the four rounds distance making this Tyne-Tees derby intriguing reading.

“Best is obviously looking a big, strong lad but I’m an all-rounder and can take whatever is thrown at me,” said Cooper.

“I do think he will come racing out of the blocks at 100mph but I’m really fit, can counterpunch well and continually improving in what is becoming a home from home for me.”

Shaping up to be a battle of wits on the Relentless Promotions undercard the derby will take things to the next level.

Both fighters (Cooper and Best) have a good following and, with Jeff Saunders headlining the Lancastrian Suite bill, there’ll be some noise on the night.

“Tyneside is definitely starting to feel like home for me even if it would be nice to get something on in Darlington,” Cooper continued.

“I’ve got a decent following and I’m enjoying seeing that increase as I progress.”

Best on the other hand is adamant he can add to his own impressive debut win, dismissing Haidar Sadik in just 77 seconds at Rainton Meadows. He added: “I don’t want journeymen and someone like Cooper is on my wavelength anyway.”

“This will be two undefeated fighters in a 50/50 fight and if that KO comes again I will take it, but my zero is going absolutely nowhere. If I have to go four rounds though, or even twelve, I can stand and do that.”

Saunders meanwhile, a victor on home soil at the 2013 ABA Championships, is chomping at the bit to make his second professional outing. Now, having signed a contract to become the first Young Athlete/Fighter Sponsorship Programme recipient at Hartlepool’s Muscleworld HQ, the 21-year-old has all the tools in place to become the best.

“It is important for me to get back into ring quickly,” said Saunders.

“I need to be able to find my feet and get at least three rounds under my belt as well as plenty of fights. I need those rounds for my own good, for my career.

“What people like Ian Glass (at Muscleworld) are doing is important and I can’t think him enough, my body is improving constantly and I can see it doing so weekly.”

Muscleworld’s Ian Glass, who has worked with Michael Hunter and Josh Leather and now both Bradley and Jeff Saunders knows what it takes to produce a champion, an athlete. Starting with their nutrition and strength and conditioning he can put those tools in place to progress with belief.

“We are looking at Jeff being a shining example and showing other athletes how things should be done,” Glass began.

“People are unaware of how easy something like this is and can be, they just need to have faith and know what they are doing with the management of their respective lifestyles. Look at Mayweather, at Pacquiao, at the Klitschko’s, they’re the best at what they do because of things like this.

“With Jeff we are training now as though we already there, already at the top of the sport and we are going to be doing things right now. He wants to go in there and shine from day one so he will be training and eating that way.

“Jeff believes in his abilities and we know he has the ability to be something really special.”

Promoters Steve Wraith and Danny Cox (above with Eddie Hearn), will be putting on a tenth show on May 1 added: “This is a quality show and we’ve worked really hard to get Jeff on it.

“Our relationship with Eddie (Hearn) is really good though and it was a no-brainer,” said Steve.

“I’d like to thank Phil Jeffries for putting Sam Best on and his derby with Steven Cooper adds to the ongoing excitement and new feel there is about north-east boxing and all the 50-50 fights that are on.

“Cooper has been a great servant over my past few shows and I feel this has the potential to be the fight of the night and be up there with a Dixon-Mould or a McClumpha-Buchanan.”

Tickets for the Relentless Promotions, in association with Fighting Chance Promotions, Friday Fight Night show, at the Lancastrian Suite, Dunston on May 1 are available from all fighters on the bill and direct from http://www.wraithpromotions.com or calling 0191 2299632 starting at £35 standard.

 

    

May Fight Night announced on Tyneside

The Show Must Go On

As we head into the first of two fight nights in the space of four weeks on Tyneside, life again has been strewn with its usual obstacles; promoter Steve Wraith has been able to take them in his stride though.

First up will be the big Matchroom show, Geordie Roar, at the Metro Radio Arena on April 4, it is preceded the night before by a talk-in and dinner at the Lancastrian Suite with Matchroom supremo, Eddie Hearn. The day after fight night is the small matter of a Tyner-Wear derby.

For promoter and Relentless Promotions Managing Director, Steve Wraith, it is a big three days in the life of the artisan Geordie.

Banking on a win for his beloved Magpies on the Sunday, the Hearn night should be the start of the perfect weekend, the only downside being the recent withdrawal, through injury, of star turn, Bradley Saunders.

Speaking of events Steve said: “We at Relentless Promotions pass on our best wishes to Bradley for a speedy recovery.

“It is because of him we find ourselves where we are now, it has all happened mainly because of the work he has put in behind the scenes and opening the doors for us. His doing that has helped us move up a gear.”

At Geordie Roar Sedgefield’s finest has been ably replaced by South Shields’ finest, undefeated Northern Area and English champion, Anthony Nelson taking his rightful place at the top table. Along with Fighting Chance’s Dickinson brothers and Matchroom big-hitter Anthony Joshua, the Saunders effect was fortunately a mere ripple and the show will go on.

“The show wasn’t overly affected by it (Brad’s withdrawal) and we were looking at 6,500 tickets which shows it will be a full house anyway,” Wraith continued.

“That’s down to the other fighters on the bill who have done amazing really. Nella, the Dickinson’s plus Joshua returning from injury not only makes this a big show but certainly puts the North East firmly back on the map.

“It’s the beginning of something really exciting up here and will be very busy indeed.”

After the dust settles on Geordie Roar there will be a return to the Lancastrian Suite for Wraith, Cox and the Relentless Promotions bandwagon as the beginning of May will see Friday Fight Night take centre stage – fight fans are in for a treat.

With a minimum of seven bouts already publicised, including Fighting Chance triumvirate Craig Dixon, Andrew Buchanan and Lewis Scott, the Relentless duo won’t be letting up as they look to continue their progression within the fight game.

“It will definitely be full steam ahead for Friday Fight Night,” Wraith added.

“We have been looking around for some potential title fights for a few of the lads but those we have on it are more than capable of putting on a great show anyway.

“I’m definitely looking forward to the returning Fighting Chance duo, Craig Dixon and Lewis Scott. We also have the potential for other fighters to maybe come and show what they can do on the night but will wait until after the April 4 show before deciding on any more.”

Matchroom Boxing will host Geordie Roar at the Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle on April 4 headlined by Anthony Nelson in a Commonwealth super flyweight title bout and supported by the Dickinson brothers, Jeff Saunders, Anthony Joshua, Charlie Flynn and many more.

The night before Matchroom supremo will be at the Lancastrian Suite’s Northumbrian Suite for a dinner and talk-in then it’s a return to the Dunston-based venue on May 1 for Friday Fight Night with Andrew Buchanan, Lewis Scott, Sam Best, Steve Cooper et al.

The show must certainly go on and with Relentless Promotions leading the charge it’s a forward march for north east boxing.

Tickets for Friday Fight Night are available from the Wraith Promotions website