Clitheroe boxer records second win since turning pro

The 20-year-old Ribble Valley fighter showed guile and perseverance in his 59-57 points victory over Doncaster’s James Tucker at Colne Muni, on Friday night, to claim his second win.

The former kickboxer, once trained by former Cage Warriors Fight Championship light heavyweight champion and The Ultimate Fighter 3 light heavyweight tournament winner Michael Bisping, used brute strength to disadvantage the 26-year-old journeyman.

“I felt a bit drained on the night to be honest,” said Blackledge. “I had shingles a few weeks ago, so it might have been the affects of that.

“I was a bit disappointed with how I fought, because I didn’t box as well as I normally do.

“I still think I can improve and I’m back in the gym tonight.

“I didn’t stop him, for one, so that was disappointing, but he had a fairly good defence.

“He knew what I was doing and he knew how to look after himself.

“It looked as though he knew my game plan so he kept his elbows in, but I still landed quite a few to the body.

“He was an experienced fighter and it’s still a learning curve for me.

“I’m going to focus on sparring mostly, sticking to doing it twice a week as well as working on timing and technique.”

Blackledge, who dedicated the victory to girlfriend Rachael Harris and son Mason, added: “The support was really good.

“There was about 300 people there for me and Stevie Taylor, so I’m pleased with that.”

Luke’s next fight has been scheduled for Friday, May 20th, though his opponent and venue has yet to be confirmed.