Morecambe teenage boxing pro impresses on debut win

Morecambe has a history of producing tough and talented boxers, but local lad John Tom Varey’s debut professional performance was ‘exceptional’.

This is according to the 19 year old’s coach Shiney Singh who predicts that new recruit Varey “will go all the way and be a champion.”

“Those who know about the sport agree,” said Singh.

“We only had a glimpse of what this kid can do. That was as good a debut performance as can be.”

Varey himself was “happy how it went, there’s always pressure and nerves, but all the feedback has been positive.

"I’ve learned quickly how tough these opponents can be. I felt composed, hit him with everything and hopefully made it clear what I’m about.”

Flyweight Varey picked up the full 40 points on referee Steve Gray’s scorecard as he defeated Mexican boxer Brandon Vargas over four rounds on a show staged by Frank Warren at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena on November 1.

Varey comes to the pro ranks with a distinguished amateur record of just five losses in 60 bouts as well as being judged best boxer at the prestigious Haringey Box Cup in London.

“That was the highlight of my career. 

"I’d done everything I wanted to as an amateur. This was the time for the transition to the professional sport.

"I train at Box Smart Elite in Walsall. It’s a 300-mile round trip but it’s Shiney’s gym and he’s the best coach for me. I’ve been with him for years. The fight camp was intense as it should be.”

“I come from a boxing family. My cousin Thomas who’s 20 is a highly rated prospect out of Sharpstyle in Blackpool. He’s undefeated in 10 bouts.

"My younger brother Oathy is regularly picking up national titles.

"We lost my older brother Frank following an accident several years ago. There’s not a day goes by, an hour even, that I don’t think of him and the potential he had in the ring.

"Frank was five times a national champion and represented England.

"I’ve won six national titles and a bronze in a world championship and a European silver.

"I’m a part-time roofer but the sport is my life. I don’t really have any other hobbies.

"When I have spare time, I’m trying to learn something new and perfect my craft. I always knew I’d be a professional and with Shiney guiding me I plan to be unstoppable and am looking forward to being out in the New Year on another big card.” 

Varey is looking for sponsorship from individuals or businesses in Lancashire. Potential sponsors should contact him on Instagram @john_tom_varey or by e-mail johnvarey394@gmail.com .