GALASHIELS boxer John McCallum will be back in the ring next month against Kazakhstan fighter Issa Akberbayev.
The pair had been due to fight last year but it was called off due to Akberbayev catching COVID-19.
The eight-round fight will take place at the world famous Peacock Gym which is considered to be one of London’s best-loved and respected community gyms, particularly famous for its champion boxers, dating back to the likes of Frank Bruno and Lennox Lewis.
And McCallum is proud to be on the bill.
Victory should guarantee McCallum a British Cruiserweight title fight against the undefeated Mikael Lawal which would be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The London-based boxer, who still owns a house in Galashiels, told the Border Telegraph: “I’ve never been more confident going into a fight. I’m in great shape and I’ve been training three times a day for six days a week including sprints, sparring and strength conditioning with my trainer Charlie Oliver.
"Charlie was with me in Russia and we have been on this journey together.
“I’ve been waiting on the phone ringing so wanted to be in shape when it did.
“And the fact that the fight will be one of the first ever held at the world famous Peacock Gym makes it even more special and I am proud to be making history.
“I want to dedicate the fight to the memory of my dad Steven Robinson
“I believe that I will knock out Akberbayev which should guarantee me a British title fight against Mikael Lawal and I believe that I will win that as well. I am determined to bring the title back to the Borders.
“I always take a large crowd from the Borders whenever I fight so anyone wanting a ticket should contact me on my Instagram account @johnmccallumjnr”
On Saturday McCallum, who provides private security for the Rugby Football Union, had the honour of escorting Scotland captain James Ritchie to collect the Calcutta Cup from Princess Anne at Twickenham.
“It was something special. The Scotland national anthem made the hairs on my arms stand up. Although I provide security for the England team my allegiances are with Scotland.”
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