Mitchell is tipped for the top (From South Wales Argus)

Mitchell is tipped for the top

10:40am Friday 20th July 2012 in Sport

TALENTED teenager Mitchell Buckland has been tipped by his brother Gary to follow in his footsteps and become a British champion.

The 19-year-old, pictured, is on the same bill as his older brother at the Newport Centre tomorrow night and looks to have a big future ahead of him.

But his third fight as a professional will be a real test against another of the bright young things of the Newport boxing scene.

Buckland takes on Craig Woodruff, star pupil of former British featherweight champion Steve Sims at his Alway gym.

Like Buckland he is 19 and is unbeaten in his two fights as a pro. “I’ve seen a bit of Craig and we’ve done some sparring in the past so it should be a good fight,” said Buckland.

“It will be a cracking fight between two local boys and that is what the crowd want to see.

“It’s a bit of a shame it isn’t for a Welsh title but I’m looking forward to it.

“I’m not expecting an easy fight. It’s going to be a good contest between two good fighters but I’m confident of getting the win.

“He knows my strengths but I know what he’s about too, so it’s the same for both of us when we get in the ring and crack on.”

Gary Buckland said: “I like to be on the same bill as Mitchell. We train together, get fit together and then have a party afterwards.

“Mitchell is a different style to me altogether because he’s a southpaw. He’s really awkward and I believe he can get to British and European level.”