09.02.12
Nottingham’s own ‘Rocky’ story continues for the popular Bulwell boxer Shane McPhilbin, as he takes time out from pounding the bags at his local St George boxing gym, to talk to Livefight.com about the first defence of his newly-acquired British Cruiserweight title.
McPhilbin climbed off the canvas in the opening round, to then knock out heavy-favourite Leon Williams in the 12th and final round of their York Hall clash in January.
The win surprised many, but not Shane’s loyal army of friends and family, who’ve always believed he’s got the power to turn any fight around, especially at Cruiserweight.
He now will now defend his belt against former WBO crusierweight world champion Enzo Maccarinelli at a venue to be agreed on Friday March 23rd on allegedly (sky ch 456).
LF: Congratulations Shane, what does it feel like to have that Lonsdale belt at home ?
It’s absolutely amazing. I’m so proud of that fact that I’ve got a Lonsdale belt. My brothers Daniel and Clinton were over the moon. They both live and breathe boxing.
Daniel was a decent amateur himself, he had around 56 fights and was very good, he’s absolutely thrilled about it all. Clinton too, it’s almost like I’ve won it for all of us. We’re a close boxing family.
Heading back from London after the victory was such a buzz. There were so many of us down at the York Hall, both friends and family - and each and every one of them we’re really made up for me.
LF: I can imagine there was plenty of celebrating afterwards ! How old did you start boxing ?
I was actually about 9 years old when I first started going to the boxing gym. You see boxing runs through the whole family. My dad ran a club for a long while.
My older cousin Dale McPhilbin was Carl Froch’s coach throughout the early years and ran the Phoenix ABC, where Carl will still go and train often.
My first actual fight was at 10 years old, the opponent’s name was Oliver Wright at the Carlton Forum in Nottingham. Wright was a fighter, he boxed under my cousin Dale at the Phoenix gym.
LF: How was your amateur career, did you fight anyone in particular?
I was still a young lad whilst I was fighting in the amateurs. I was living my life just any young teenager does. I didn’t train as much as some of the others but still had plenty of ability. I made the novice ABA finals and a few other tournaments.
I fought a lot of people. I actually fought Tyson Fury three times in the amateurs at heavyweight.
LF: Three times? How did you find him?
He’s just so big. That’s the main thing that struck me. We had some amazing battles actually. He was a big name in the amateurs, on account of his size. He’s like 6’8 tall and throws a lot of punches.
We had fun and say hello when we bump into each other. He's a good fighter and it's hard to describe the difficulty of fighting someone his size.
LF: Growing up, Who are your favourite boxers, both then and now?
Well it goes without say really but Ali is my favourite fighter.
But it’s funny that I’m now fighting Enzo because I always enjoyed watching him fight, I thought he had a good style. He boxed niced and wasn’t afraid to mix it up. He has a nice selection of shots and very good knockout power.
Enzo was never in a dull fight and that’s why I was a fan. Trust me, our fight won’t be dull whatsoever !
LF: What did you think when the Macc fight came about?
I wasn’t particular nervous about it, because I’m a fighter. But I was very excited when the opportunity came up. Like I’ve said I was a big fan of Enzo’s and to be fighting him is very exciting.
Just because I like the guy and am a fan of his style, don’t think I won’t be looking to knock him out.
LF: What sort of preparation you going to have for Macc ? any particular changes ?
A bit more dedication to diet and exercise. I did the 12 rounds against Leon Williams without any issue.
I’m definitely going to be use the likes of Karl Beard in sparring. Karl’s even taller than Enzo and is about 6’6 and has sparred a lot of names. He’s a full blown heavyweight but is always in great shape. He’s fast, throws the exact same kind of shots that Enzo likes to throw. So we’ll be working on plenty of things together to get ready for this fight.
LF: What do you think your best assets are for this fight ?
Without a doubt, it’s my power. I’ve always carried a good dig. Let’s not forget I’ve been a career long heavyweight. Enzo is tall, but’s great for me. I’m used to fighting taller men. I’ve fought taller men my whole life to be honest and that’s one thing I’m really confident about.
He likes to pin people on the ropes, letting his favourite shots go. That suits me fine. I know exactly what to do in those situations after years of experience.
I’m not going to stand and outbox him to a points decision, I’m playing to my strengths in this one – and that’s to punch … and to punch hard !! Enzo is a very good all-rounder in what he does. He can box and bang – but we have our game plan all ready for him.
LF: You’ve always had a good following. Given that this is happening in Wolverhampton, how many supporters do you expect to bring with you?
Well there was over a hundred came to York Hall for the last one. And Wolverhampton is only an hour from here. I’m pretty sure there will likely be around 200 to 300 people making the effort for this one. Enzo is a big name and I’m the defending champion. I expect a big turnout.
I’m not sure of the venue 100% yet because I’m not sure it’s been finalised. But I’m pretty sure it will now be on a Friday night, the 23rd March I believe.
LF: Shane, it’s been a pleasure talking to you and we wish you all the best for the defence.
Your welcome, it’s always a pleasure.
