Blackpool boxer Axel Cartmell eyes top prize with superstars Fury and Tyson watching

A Blackpool boxer has the opportunity of a lifetime to fight in front of Tyson Fury and Mike Tyson, and challenge for a £10,000 prize.
Blackpool's Axel Cartmell contests the Ultimate Prizefighter in Manchester on SaturdayBlackpool's Axel Cartmell contests the Ultimate Prizefighter in Manchester on Saturday
Blackpool's Axel Cartmell contests the Ultimate Prizefighter in Manchester on Saturday
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Super-middleweight Axel Cartmell will take part in the Ultimate Prizefighter show in Manchester on Saturday.

The 23-year-old will be aiming to make a name for himself at the O2 Victoria venue, with Fury and Tyson both watching via a Zoom call. Cartmell told The Gazette: “Knowing they’re going to be watching me fight is a bit strange to be honest. You never think something like that is going to happen.

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“It’s a massive deal and I certainly hope I can impress them. But you’ve got to think of yourself first and not let that pressure get to you. You’ve just got to get the job done.”

Promoted by The Ultimate Fight Factory (TUFF), the prizefighter show features eight of the best up-and-coming fighters in the country.

Each will contest three two-minute rounds, with the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final all in one night.

The host and commentator will be legendary Glenn McCrory.

Cartmell (right) added: “This is the first time I’ve ever done something like this, so I’m feeling really excited. I was more nervous doing all my interviews.

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“My nerves are not too bad now, but I think the Friday weigh-in is when they will probably start to kick in.

“I could be fighting three times in one night, which I’ve never done before.

“It’s a bit of an unknown quantity and a bit nerve-wracking but I’m feeling very fit and ready for it.

“I’ve just got to give it my all and take the opportunity. The prize money is a massive deal but for me it’s more about the opportunity of fighting in the competition. The money is a bonus.”

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Fury and McCrory conducted the draw for the quarter-finals last week, with Cartmell paired with Bradford-based fighter Tommy Hawthorn.

“I don’t know much about him. I’ve not done my research and I haven’t watched any YouTube videos of his fights because I like to concentrate on myself,” Cartmell said.

“My coach has watched him, so he’s told me a few bits about what I need to learn and watch out for, so I’ll be prepared.

“I’d describe myself as a ‘swarmer’ – I’m nice and patient, and then I like to throw my shots.

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“I will wait for the right time and then I’ll let my hands go.”

Coached by Lytham-based Grant Stratford, Cartmell has made a promising start to his career with five wins from his first five fights.

The event will be live- streamed on www.tuffpromotions.com and/or tuffsports.tv