CURRENT and former world title holders Sam Eggington and Robin Reid held coaching sessions for young boxers.

Sam, who currently holds the WBC Silver Middleweight title, and Robin, the former IBO, and WBC World Champion, spent several hours offering advice and demonstrating boxing techniques during separate visits to West Auckland Boxing Gym.

Both praised the achievements of local entrepreneur Stephen Nicholson, who last year bought and converted the old youth club to create the state-of-the-art community facility.

2. Sam Eggington demonstrates his punching technique

2. Sam Eggington demonstrates his punching technique

Sam ‘The Savage’ Eggington lifted his WBC Silver Middleweight belt in May after beating former world champion Mexican Carlos Molina, a victory he hopes will earn him a world title shot.

The 27-year-old, from the West Midlands, who is a former British and European welterweight champion, said: “I was genuinely impressed with the gym’s facilities and how dedicated the kids are.

"I had nothing to do when I was young, so I support initiatives like this that get youngsters off the streets and gives them a direction in life.”

4. One youngster lands a punch on Robin Reid

4. One youngster lands a punch on Robin Reid

Robin Reid held the WBC Super Middleweight title from 1996 to 1997 and the IBO Super-Middleweight title from 2004 to 2005.

Dubbed the ‘Grim Reaper’, he represented Great Britain as an amateur and won a bronze medal at light-middleweight in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

The 50-year-old, from Runcorn, Cheshire, is perhaps best remembered for giving undefeated world champion Joe Calzaghe the fight of his life in 1999 at the Newcastle Arena, when he narrowly lost following a split decision.

 

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He said: “I really enjoyed spending time with the youngsters who were really enthusiastic. Hopefully receiving a few tips from a former world champion will give them a confidence boost.”

Being of mixed race, he was subject to racism and bullying as a child and was encouraged to take up boxing by his foster father.

“At that age I didn’t believe in myself, but when I walked into the boxing gym no-one cared about the colour of my skin. I was just accepted, which is why boxing has the power to change lives for the better.”

Stephen Nicholson, who is managing director of Bishop Auckland-based painting and decorating service S Nicholson & Sons, said: “It’s not every day that we can welcome two boxers of Sam and Robin’s pedigree.

“I hope they may have spotted some future world champions, but simply by being here and telling their own personal stories, they have encouraged youngsters to pursue a sport that promotes both physical and mental wellbeing.”