‘That Would Be Unbelievable for Me’ – Lex Weston’s Title Dream
Lex Weston believes he is only getting started in professional boxing as he reflects on an enjoyable first year in the paid ranks and sets his sights on a title fight.
Weston believes he is developing with every outing, learning the demands of the professional game while building towards what would be an ‘unbelievable’ opportunity.
As if to make the journey all the better, the Hammer Boxing man’s latest challenge comes at the iconic Ulster Hall this weekend, a venue he is relishing the opportunity to box in as a professional.
“It’s hard to believe a year has passed already, but I’m happy with how things have gone so far,” he tells Irish-boxing.com.
“There’s still plenty more to come, and I feel like I’m only getting started. It’s been a really enjoyable first year. I’ve learned a lot, both inside and outside the ring, and I feel like I’m developing with every fight and every training camp.”
One of the biggest lessons the Padraig McCrory mentored boxer has had over his debut year was composure in the ring as well as patience outside it.
“Probably the biggest thing I’ve learned is patience. The professional game is a different ball game, and it’s not about trying to rush things or force anything but staying composed, picking my shots and being more calculated in what I do.
“The professional game is definitely different, and there’s been a bit of a learning curve, but that’s something I’ve really enjoyed. I’m still relatively early in my professional career, so for me it’s about staying active, gaining experience and continuing to improve,” he adds before revealing the Ulster Hall provides extra significance to his fourth pro outing.
“What a venue to to fight in. When you think of Belfast boxing, you think of Ulster Hall. I actually missed out on fighting at the Ulster Hall during my amateur days, as the Ulster Elites had moved to Girdwood in the years I competed. So to get the chance to tick it off as a pro is great. I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve a good squad coming up to support me, so I’m expecting an electric atmosphere on Saturday night.”
That local support has also been a significant part of his journey so far. From fans purchasing tickets to businesses providing sponsorship, Weston is keenly aware of the contribution made by those backing his ambitions.
“One thing I’ve also come to appreciate over the past year is just how fortunate I am to have the support I’ve received. Whether that’s people spending their money buying tickets to come and watch me fight, or local businesses getting behind me through sponsorship, it genuinely means a lot.”
The Daniel Anderson-trained boxer faces distance specialist Vaidas Balciauskas on the Unleashed card, meaning he may have to wait for a first career stoppage. Not that he minds!
“Like with every fight, I’m expecting a tough challenge, but it’s one I’m more than ready for. I’ve put in a serious amount of work over the past couple of months, and I’m feeling good going into Saturday night. I’m excited to get in there, put everything I’ve been working on into practice and hopefully put on a good performance.
“Of course, I think it goes without saying I’d like a stoppage. But I’m not going to go chasing it. I know it’ll come at some stage, and I’m happy to be patient. For me, it’s more important to box well, stick to the plan and get a good win. If the knockout comes along the way, happy days!”
Looking further ahead, Weston has clear ambitions for the next stage of his professional journey. With more fights, greater experience and continued improvement at the forefront of his plans, he is hopeful that the coming year could bring a significant milestone.
“I’d love to have another good few fights under my belt by this time next year and hopefully be involved in a title fight, as that would be a massive achievement for me.”
He also has ambitions to compete on a bigger stage, whether that means appearing at a major stadium event or featuring on the undercard of a high-profile contest.
“I’d also love the chance to fight on a big stadium show or on the undercard of a high-profile fight.”
