Coyle determined to make up for lost time (From Your Local Guardian)

Coyle determined to make up for lost time

4:46pm Tuesday 12th January 2010 in

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Epsom super-middleweight Jimmy Coyle has his sights set on a career kick-starting 2010 after lining up his first fight in the paid ranks for February.

Coyle will step between the ropes against an as-yet unnamed opponent to make his professional debut at a London venue.

And after shaking off the effects of a December rib injury, the 23-year-old is raring to go.

Coyle said: “I have been hitting the road for quite a while, but now I am really stepping things up in the gym.

“I’m feeling good, I’m feeling strong and I am feeling confident.

“My trainers are really happy with how things are going and I cannot wait to get that first fight under my belt.”

Having coped with numerous troubles in his past, which include two spells in prison for motoring offences, Coyle is determined to put things right.

And with a successful amateur career behind him, including an ABA Final appearance, the Epsom fighter reckons he has the gifts to succeed.

He added: “I know I have the talent - it is all about putting it into practice.

“I think if I get my head right I could go as far as I want to.

“2010 for me will be all about forgetting about the pubs, the clubs and the girls and putting everything in boxing.”

Under the tutelage of Ian Burbage, and with British Light-Welterweight champion Lenny Daws backing him up, Coyle could well be the next big thing to emerge from the Rosehill gym.

But he insists he is in no rush to climb the ladder.

Coyle added: “You have to learn this game and not get ahead of yourself.

“This year I want to knuckle down and get a few fights under my belt, and then start thinking about Southern Area titles in 2011 if all goes to plan.”