In Focus: Ryan Wheeler

In the latest 'In Focus' we turn the spotlight onto Somerset Lightweight Ryan 'The Somerset Stallion' Wheeler.

Wheeler, from Frome, currently has 6 wins and 1 draw from his first 7 professional fights and takes to the ring for the 8th time on March 10th in Bristol.

We caught up with the southpaw recently to find out more about him.

'I'm a tall southpaw, good at range but also loves getting stuck into a fight. Big heart, willing to fight to end no matter the circumstances.'

As the conversation goes on it becomes clear that the big heart he claims to possess has long been part of his make up, way before he stepped into a ring.

Wheeler recalls just how he got started out in the game.

'I started boxing after getting into a fight at school with another kid who, as I was about to find out, was a boxer.

He beat me real bad and after the fight was stopped we were both taken to the head teachers office.

I asked him how he was so good at fighting and he then told me he was a boxer.

Instantly I wanted to be like him! We then become good friends and I started to go along to the local boxing club.'

That friendship and resulting trips to the local amateur gym proved hugely successful for Wheeler, who went on to have some great successes in the unpaid ranks.

'I went on to having 52 amateur fights reaching national finals and winning Southern Area & Midland County Championships and also representing the Western Counties.'

Fighting spirit was installed in a young Ryan Wheeler long before he even thought about lacing up a pair of gloves. At the age of four he battled and successfully defeated his biggest and most fearsome opponent yet, cancer. He continues to use that victory to spur him on today.

'After winning my battle with cancer as a young child I feel like I am here for a reason. When training gets tough I remind myself the pain in training will never be as hard as what I went through. '

One could argue that having been through such an experience at such a young age, Wheeler's wisdom is far beyond his years- another trait which is clear throughout the conversation with the 23 year old.

The step up to the pro ranks can prove difficult for some, but from speaking to Wheeler it's clear that he has a very level head on his shoulders and aims to go about things in a professional and sensible manner.

'From the start I have said "My main priority is to look back at the end and be able to tell myself no matter what level I reach,I took no short cuts and seized every opportunity. Most importantly leave the boxing world in good health.'

'Since turning pro my outlook on boxing has changed dramatically. As an amateur, boxing was just a hobby. I trained hard during set sessions at my amateur club but that was about it. Since making the decision to join the pro ranks I've taken on boxing full time, training 2-3 times a day, eating and sleeping right too.'

'As boxers we all miss out on times with friends & family. We can't eat the foods we crave and go to parties with friends, but this is just a start of the sacrifices I am willing to make to give myself the best possible chance to reach the top in the Pro Ranks.'

Even when asked how far he believes he can go, level headedness takes control of the young mans ambitions, and it is clear that he puts a lot of trust in those around him.

'At present I'm just being patient. I have trust in the team around me at Bristol boxing gym with Chris & Jamie Sanigar, Support from Lee Haskins and the other Bristol boxers also my new trainer Richard Farnan. '

However, the mere mention of the success that other British Lightweights, such as Terry Flanagan, Anthony Crolla and Luke Campbell are having, Wheeler's quiet ambitions shines through, even if only for a moment.

'British boxing is booming once again. I believe I can be as good as these guys' I just need the right guidance and for people to keep believing in me and supporting me throughout my career. Since the Olympics I've been a big fan of Luke Campbell and wish him all the best in his career.'

Ryan has asked us to give a special mention to his friends and family who travel out to support him at each fight building up THE WHEELER TEAM.

And a huge thank you to his sponsors who's support allows him to focus on his training.

Ryan Wheeler's Sponsors are:

Metro Rod Bristol

Red Falcon Sport

Clive Lewis

Fortis Property Services

Ricky Fenby Van sales

Rodden Road Cars

Piling equipment UK