Promoter Dennis Hobson calls for Sheffield boxing revival
There is a gap in the Sheffield boxing market - and it’s one Dennis Hobson is keen to fill
Dennis Hobson wants to link up with other senior Sheffield boxing figures to re-energise the professional sport across the city.
While Sheffield can boast Dalton Smith as WBC super-lightweight champion - he defends that title at the Arena in a Matchroom event on October 24 - there have been few shows further down the food chain, this year.
Rob Riley has been leading the way with small hall events, but generally speaking others have been few and far between.
Ryan Rhodes takes his events to the Magna Centre, Izzy Asif's GBM Sports has slipped off the radar, while the scene a few miles away in Doncaster is flourishing.
The situation leaves a gap in the Sheffield market - and one Hobson is keen to fill.
Three of his last four shows have been in Hull, although he is planning an event at Skate Central, Sheffield, on November 28.
That venue has its faults; it doesn't compare with the Park Community Arena that GBM used, a point Hobson readily admits.
"Yes Skate Central is cheap and cheerful, it needs a facelift," he said.
"I know some fans don't like it and I get that- I had hoped it was going to get spruced up.
"We want to do better.
"I used to go there skating on ice as a kid with my big sister and it still has that dark, cold feeling about it!"
Other potential venues are significantly more costly, he said, yet Hobson insists he hasn't given up on the city.
"I would be happy to sit down with Rob Riley or Ryan Rhodes about co-promoting a show and getting things going again" he said.
"I have been taking my foot off the pedal but I am ready to get going properly again. I am still in the game.
"There are lots of bits and bobs we could do - lots of fighters in different, local stables who could compete with each other.
"It would be great to share the load - some venues are charging fortunes, silly money, - but we could have a 10 or 12-fight card with local kids...it makes sense. People must be wondering why we don't work together?
"John Fewkes (trainer) is bringing up some great kids in a family-atmosphere at our gym (Titans; Gleadless) and I'm sure there are others at the other gyms in the city."