In Focus: Ollie Pattison

In this edition of In Focus we take a look at another fighter who has made a perfect start to their professional career.

Ollie 'Punch Perfect' Pattison moved to 6-0 in his last fight, a points win over Bulgarian Light- Heavyweight Merdjidin Yuseinov (7-20-2).

How does Pattison view the start that he has made in the pro ranks?

'I feel my progress has been good. Still unbeaten,still learning all the time and also beating tough credible opponents so overall I'm very happy!'

Pattison who is signed to Goodwin Promotions is another professional off of the prolific production line of Finchley Gym in North London where recent graduates include Derek Chisora and Anthony Joshua.

Having spoken to other fighters that have come through the ranks at Finchley, we were interested to know what it is, in Pattison's opinion, that makes the gym so successful.

'I think the facilities at Finchley are brilliant but more than that it all comes down to hard work and commitment, not just from the boxers but all the coaches down there push you hard and get the best out of you.'

Pattison's results so far show a boxer who is learning his craft, and the fighter is the first to admit that he will never stop learning. So how would he describe his style at present?

'My style is a counter punching boxer who can also mix it and fight when I need to. I try to cover every angle as a fighter so I can beat any style. You never stop learning so I aim to become an ultimate fighter similar to Andre Ward.'

Whilst willing to learn, Pattison has an eye on the end result and he is determined to claim titles in the light-heavyweight division, before a possible step up in weight, one which his natural frame would definitely support.

'My ambitions are to go all the way whilst also taking every fight step at a time, I want titles and willing to work hard to get them. I'm tall for my weight (6'3") so in future I will probably move up to Cruiserweight', before adding with a smile, 'maybe even up to heavy at the end!'

Whilst Pattison targets titles he doesn't have anyone specific in mind when it comes to plotting his route to the top.

'There's no one in particular at this moment in time but as I said before I want titles and when I'm in line for them will target who ever has them.'

And whilst a move up to Heavyweight is a long way off Pattison, who fought on the undercard for David Haye v Arnold Gjergjaj, already has an eye on the division for a different reason.

'Anthony Joshua is a former Finchley club mate and also good friend so my prediction on this fight will always sound bias but in reality I genuinely believe 'Josh' has too much to offer. Klitschko has been a great champion and a legend in the game but it's time for a new legend and I can only see a win for AJ whether it be stoppage or points.'

Like all other fighters, particularly those starting out there are a lot of sacrifices made along the way and lots of support is needed to enable fighters to concentrate on learning their craft. Pattison is no different;

'I'd like to give my sponsors Alliance Intelligent Scaffolding for their support, Goodwin Promotions, my trainer Mark Pattison. Everyone at Boxing Legion, all of my family and friends and of course everyone at Finchley ABC who's backed me since I started boxing'.

Pattison is next out on 8th July at London's York Hall and tickets can be booked via 07495985183.

Follow Ollie Pattison @PunchPerfectPat