Fighting electrician George Killeen goes home and away with Man Utd and is hoping to be next Anthony Crolla

Boxer George Killeen is eagerly anticipating his fourth professional bout when he fights on the Black Flash Promotions show at Bowlers Exhibition centre in Manchester on December 16.

Back in May, aged just 19, Killeen won his first fight in the paid ranks against veteran Estonian Artjom Spatar. Seven months later he’s boxing in his fourth on a show marking the 10th anniversary of the promotion run by Killeen’s manager trainer and former professional boxer Pat Barrett.

An only child who lives with his parents in Blackley and relaxes by attending both home and away Manchester United fixtures, Killeen trains at Collyhurst and Moston gym and recently qualified as an electrician.

“I’m a long way from earning my living as a pro boxer,” he told Manchester World. “But I’m delighted that I’ve now had decisive wins as I keep putting the pressure on them with hard jabs allowing me to win each round. I’ve hopefully shown everyone what I’m made of and that I have the courage needed to reach my full potential.

“My dream is to be sufficiently dedicated to this sport to become a world champion like Manchester’s Anthony Crolla and Scott Quigg.”

Dad Andy said: “George’s commitment to boxing is unrivalled. As parents we are so proud of our tough and talented young son and have enjoyed both the years of a demanding daily training schedule and highlights creating lifelong memories such as taking him to America to see major fights and which included a visit to the famous ‘Wildcard’ gym in LA where George was lucky to do a little training with boxing legend Freddie Roach. He’s got lots of support as shown by selling over a hundred tickets for each bout and 150 for his professional debut.’

Since boxing Spatar, Killeen has met veteran journeymen MJ Hall and Dale Arrowsmith winning both four-round bouts on points.

“I wanted to continue showing improvements developed in the gym with Pat Barrett as presently it’s about gaining experience,” said Killeen. “There’s much more to come. I’m training hard for the December show so that I finish the year on a high.

“I’m hoping that in 2024 I’ll progress to six or even eight-round contests setting me up for regional title fights perhaps as early as the year after in which I can showcase my full ability.

“I’m keen to ensure my opponents don’t go the distance as I want to repay my supporters for their faith in me by teaching each opponent an unforgettable lesson.”’

A former student of local Catholic secondary schools St. Matthew’s and Our Lady’s, Killeen is clearly dedicated to his craft.

“Without it nothing else matters,” he said. “It’s also about how a boxer spends the hours outside of the gym. I live the life, train hard and avoid alcohol and one day that dedication will pay off.”

Killeen is backed by sponsors Cooney Insulations, Chrisalis Worldwide Ltd., Pro Fire UK Ltd., Sheridan Skips, Cheadle Tyre, Auto Sk8 Tyres, Sovereign Air Movement and John Edward’s Sports Massage.