Last night, the ever-enthusiastic Sunny Edwards popped by Sheffield’s Firth Park Boxing Academy, lighting up the room and leaving young boxers starstruck. The reigning IBF World Flyweight Champion has his sights set on adding the WBO title to his collection after he squares off with Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez in their December fight in the arid landscape of Arizona.
With bags packed, Edwards is gearing up for a journey to the States, preparing for his important unification fight against the American contender. The two will duke it out on December 16 at Desert Diamond Arena, Arizona, and you can catch all the action live on DAZN.
Age 27 and radiating confidence, the British sensation, often hailed as one of the top-contender pound-for-pound fighters in the UK, had this to say: “Remember when I took on Moruti Mthalane? Everyone saw me as the underdog, but I thrived on it. Fast forward to now, I’m just as psyched to go head-to-head with Bam. I mean, if I win, Christmas dinners on me, guys!”
He further gushed, “There’s no ring I step into without a boost of confidence. I’m in my prime. Did you know? Even before my media tour, I clocked in 12-14 round sparring sessions during my Tenerife training. I’ve maintained that momentum, ensuring my weight’s on point and my training’s solid. Trust me, I’m more ready than my opponent will ever be.”
But it wasn’t all about the upcoming fight. Edwards cherishes opportunities like the Matchroom Community event to engage with fans, especially the younger generation. “These events? Pure gold. From re-opening Lynn AC in London to this one in Sheffield, I’ve seen passion in the eyes of budding boxers everywhere. These gyms offer them an alternative path. I started just like them in London, so being able to contribute feels surreal.”
Frank Smith, the head honcho of Matchroom Boxing, wasn’t just there for the photo ops. He set a light-hearted challenge for the Firth Park Boxing Academy youngsters – a press-up contest. The grand prize? VIP tickets for the make-or-break Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington fight at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena.
He shared his admiration for community gyms, stating, “Visiting such academies and witnessing their impact first-hand? It’s heartwarming. Their work in local communities is respectable. And seeing the kids’ eyes light up on our arrival? Absolutely priceless. We’re geared up to extend our support to more clubs across the UK.”