Debut Corner with middleweight Mark Bridger
29-year-old ABA champion, Mark 'The Banger' Bridger, has just made the transition to the pro ranks under the Goodwin boxing banner and he chose British Boxing News for his first ever exclusive interview!
The Swanley man sat down with Tim Rickson to discuss his boxing journey so far and his ambitions in the professional scene.
Here's what he had to say:
What made you want to start boxing?
“Grief really, my mum died when I was 13 and I didn’t know what to do with myself and a friend suggested starting boxing, something to channel myself and I haven’t left since.”
Who was your boxing hero growing up and why?
“Some many to choose from! ‘Rocky’, although I know isn’t real, but it’s the story behind it that I really liked – the coming from nothing to something.”
How old were you when you had your first fight and how did you do?
“13 was my first fight and I won.”
How well did you do in the amateurs?
“I had approximately 41 amateurs, winning most, and also won the senior ABA’s in 2019.”
What made you decide to turn pro?
“I have always wanted to turn pro since I was 16, I wanted to get an ABA title first, which I did in 2019, now I want to fulfil the dream of winning a British Title outright!”
What team do you have around you?
“Steve Goodwin is going to manage me and John Cole will be training me.”
Are you full-time as a pro?
“No, I am also a warehouse supervisor.”
What sort of fighting style do you have?
“I am a come forward, high-pressure fighter. I like being on the front foot and I would like to think I can bang a bit”
What ambitions do you have for your pro career?
“Win a British title outright.”
When is your first fight and who will be there in support?
“30th May at the York Hall (subject to Board hearing etc.) and there’ll be as many people as possible coming! I want all of Swanley and Kent there!”
For tickets to the debut fight please call: 07837 798 793
To follow Mark Bridger on Instagram, click here @mark_the_banger_bridger