Welsh Area super-lightweight champion Kieran Gething reflects back on 2021 and reveals plans for 2022
The UK went into lockdown over Christmas 2020 and into March 2021, so it wasn't the best start to the year for everyone. Boxing was suspended momentarily and, even when allowed to operate, the events took place behind closed doors.
Unfortunately 2022 has begun almost identically, with January events in the UK suspended and promoters already being forced to postpone events.
For Welsh Area super-lightweight champion, Kieran Gething (10-2-2, 2KOs), it was a difficult year with lots of ups and downs, but the mature professional is keeping a positive mindset for 2022.
The 27-year-old spoke exclusively to BBN about it all:
It was another uncertain year last year, how was 2021 for you?
KG: "Looking back on the year, there’s been a lot of ups and downs, not just for me but for everyone else.
"I remember feeling really positive in January, as I’d just had successful surgery on an injured elbow, thinking I’d be back in the ring in a month or so, but then we had all the lockdowns and restrictions again.
"There were a few opportunities presented to me but nothing ever really came of it, unfortunately, as it wasn’t a stable time for the sport with most shows taking place behind closed doors.
"Then, we got to the summer and I was so busy with work, I couldn’t take my eyes of my construction company, so boxing took a back seat for a few months, and it wasn’t until after the summer when the crowds came back again."
Despite all of this, you managed to fight at least once this year, so how did that feel?
KG: "I was pleased to have made my ring return in September after nearly two full years out and got a win.
"Then, I accepted a 10-round fight against Declan Geraghty in November, but there was a discrepancy with the weight, but I now see it as just a hiccup, because after two years away, making weight became harder and unfamiliar.
"But I can see the silver lining now, because it forced my hand to give myself new opportunities at a higher and more suitable weight. So I’m starting this year like last year – positive!"
As you say, this year is very similar to last year already, with boxing events suspended once more. How does that make you feel?
KG: "Yeah, the British Boxing Board have suspended all boxing events in January, which isn’t a great start, but I’m sure things will be up and running again very soon."
You mentioned you are very busy with work, so how will you be able to dedicate yourself to boxing in 2022?
KG: "I have got someone in to manage my construction company, so that I can spend more time in the gym, where I’ll be offering personal training sessions. It makes perfect sense to spend all my time in the gym training people and keeping fit myself, and all I have to do is just top up with sparring."
When are you hoping to fight next?
KG: "Ideally, I’m looking towards March for my next fight. I would love to get on the undercard of the Chris Eubank Jr. vs Liam Williams fight, which is likely to be pushed back into February now, which is set to take place in Cardiff. It'll be a great event and good for boxing in Wales. Being local, I know I'll take a big crowd with me, so I'd love to get on that show."
What is your wishlist for 2022?
KG: "Just as before, my aim is to become a champion again in 2022. I’ve got my eye on a few titles I’d like to challenge for, so it’s about getting myself into position to set those fights up."
What fight do you most want to see happen this year?
KG: "My wishlist for boxing this year is to see Tyson Fury become the undisputed heavyweight champion in 2022. Happy New Year everyone!"
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