Viewpark boxer eyes Euro prize after taking EBF British title

Viewpark boxer Ray Kelly punched his way to the EBF British lightweight title earlier this month, and immediately set his sights on a European prize.

Kelly beat Cody Atkins by unanimous decision during FSG Promotions’ 12th Anniversary Fight Night at the Crowne Plaza on Friday, March 8, in a fight that went the distance.

Promoter and coach Francis Gilluley of Bellshill’s Fighting Scots Gym, reckons Kelly will very quickly make a name for himself.

He said: “It went the full six rounds, six action-packed rounds, and Ray gave him a standing eight count in the last round.

“It went the full distance and it was a unanimous decision for Ray Kelly.

“He’s got the British title, so the next step is possibly a European title after he makes two defences.

“I’m delighted. That’s his 20th fight, so Ray has been with us for a long time, and deserves it.

“He has to make a couple of defences and then we’ll have a look at getting him a European shot, which would be absolutely brilliant, so hopefully that’s the next plan.”

Also fighting on the night was Bellshill’s Aidan McRoberts, and Francis has high hopes for him.

He said: “We have another good prospect from Bellshill, Aidan McRoberts, who fought in our last show and he will be chasing titles shortly.”

Coatbridge fighter Willie Hardie is also being lined up for a Novice title eliminator, which will take place at Francis’ next show on May 24.

Gilluley said: “We’re getting that sorted out. This will be his first title he’s going for, and his fourth fight.

“He’s moving up the rankings, quickly, because of his performances, so he’s one for the future.”

Fighting Scots Gym is also celebrating something of a milestone in the Mossend community, as their anniversary fight night suggested.

Gilluley