The Greater Manchester boxing brothers hoping to make it to big time together - meet Jack and Thomas Rafferty

Two boxing brothers are hoping to land in the big time together - and both have important fights before the year is out.  Jack and Thomas Rafferty, from Shaw, appear on Pat Barrett’s Black Flash Promotions event at Bowlers Exhibition Centre on Saturday, December 16.

Big brother Jack will fight in the most important contest of his career as he takes on Rotherham’s Lee Appleyard for the Commonwealth Super Lightweight title in a bout that is also a British title eliminator.

“This is the fight I’ve worked towards all my boxing career and winning would mean access to national and eventually world title bouts at large venues,” said the 28-year-old. “Every boxer wants that and now it’s in my grasp. I respect Lee, he’s a high-quality opponent, but I’m planning to show that I’m the Oldham man in boxing’s big time. There’s still some way to go but I’m climbing that ladder. Hopefully to the very top.”

‘The Demolition Man’ is undefeated in 21 bouts since his professional career began six years ago with knockout wins in more than half of his fights. 

Younger brother Thomas, 26, will be defending his undefeated record in nine professional bouts including three wins by stoppage. Starting his professional career two years ago and fighting at middleweight, the Bowlers contest will be his fourth over the six-round distance.

“Winning my 10th fight would set me up nicely for area titles in what I intend to be a busy 2024 with hopefully eight or even 10-rounders against highly challenging opponents,” he said. “I yearn to have the  chance like Jack to prove just what I’m made of in the ultimate battle that is a 12-round fight.”

The brothers train at ‘The Finest Boxing Gym’ in Ancoats, coached by Steve Maylett and Joe Eko. Thomas is managed by Steve Barrett and Jack by London 2012 GB Boxing captain Tom Stalker.  

Their biggest fan however is dad Dave. “They are two seriously tough and highly courageous young boxers but also clean-living men who are strong role models and excellent ambassadors for the sport they love,” he said. “No father could ask for more.”

A number of other boxers from Greater Manchester including George Killeen from Blackley and Ryszard Lewicki from Bury will be joining the Rafferty men on the December 16 show which also marks the 10th anniversary of the launch of Black Flash Promotions.