Dronfield boxer refreshed after break and ready for Barnsley challenge

On Friday, he fights under Dave Coldwell’s mentorship on a Carl Greaves bill at Barnsley.

The Dronfield middleweight has fought once since November 2015 and is up against a seasoned professional who went the distance with Liverpool’s Paul Smith in May. Polish national Bartlomiej Grafka ( W18 L23 D3) has been out nine times this year - so has a head-start in terms of conditioning.

“I had a break from boxing because I took my time during the change of management” said Taylor. “Being with Dave I can now go on a few different shows and hopefully after winning this, I can get my name out there again and start going for eliminators. Dave wants me to go out there and make a statement.

“I haven’t boxed since Tommy Langford (Commonwealth pts defeat, March) but that boosted my confidence, a lot of people enjoyed the fight.

“I have never had a break since turning professional, (five years ago) it’s all been full-on, so this might well help me in the long run.”

Taylor, 26, admits there will be some ring rust to shed at the Metrodome, but says: “I have been sparring bigger kids in Huddersfield and Birmingham and will be ready on the night. Fights like Langford are what I want, I don’t want to be out there with nobodies.

“The Pole has boxed at light heavy is used to going the distance; a big solid kid who comes forward, non-stop. He has been very active this year.”

Dinnington office worker Taylor will be taking 130 fans to Barnsley, where he will be seeking his 19th pro victory.

Also on the bill are Barnsley middleweight Ben Davies, Barnsley featherweight Jack Churchill, Doncaster bantam Jason Cunningham, Bentley heavyweight Carl Spencer, Sheffield welters Dan West and Nathan Hardy, Sheffield super lightweight Lee Connelly and Gleadless light heavy Chris Dutton.