“When you win – win good. When you lose, lose smart.”
Those are the wistfully chosen words of our very own reporter fondly known as Skanz. He’s an under the radar freelance journalist who knows a few things about winning and losing having experienced much of both before arriving at MBC HQ. We won’t go into the details…you don’t need to know.
But what you do need to know is that Polish born and now Wolverhampton based boxer Damian Kiwior returns to the ring on Saturday 16th February with a clear intention to get back to winning ways after suffering his first pro defeat at the hands of Bolton bad boy Chris Jenkinson last December. And clearly he’s motivated rather than demotivated by his experience.
Kiwior’s ambitions are to reach world level as a professional, with the Commonwealth and European route in mind to get there and he’ll be the first to admit that he’ll be in a fight he needs to win when he does battle with the undefeated Cornish superwelterweight, Wes Smith next month at BCB Promotions’ first West Midlands offering of 2019, at the show called ‘No Love Lost.’
“I had a very rich amateur career, but I feel I’m still a student of pro boxing because I think it’s a lot different.” he said.
“I’m still working on technique and building my endurance, because physical strength as a pro is very important.
“My last fight didn’t go my way, I can’t justify defeat but anyone close to me knows what happened. Such is sport and I have to be stronger.
“I was unable to show what I can do best. It was a painful lesson for me and I’ve drawn my conclusions from that.
“My goal hasn’t changed. I want to win the most important titles in boxing and I won’t give up after one unsuccessful performance.
“My cousin has helped to motivate me, Paul Mann has been a big influence on me as have all of the trainers at BCB.
“I’ve gained experience, I will be wiser and stronger whatever happens and I need to go and prove that on February 16.
“I prefer an aggressive style, but I need to learn patience. It’s certainly a plus that I am better prepared now. I’m definitely starting to think about what I’m doing more.
“I’m not British, so sadly I can’t box for the national titles but I’d love to have a go at the Commonwealth, then become the European champion.
“Every boxer dreams of fighting for a world title and I’m no different. I still believe this may be in the future for me and that’s what I strive for.
“I’m not looking past where I am now and my current focus is on Wes Smith. I need a win, so I’ll be 100 per cent prepared.
“I know he’s unbeaten, that’s why I’m motivated to prepare for him. He has an offensive style, like myself, so I invite everyone to come and watch us perform.”
Tickets, priced at £35 standard or £65 VIP ringside with a buffet and waitress service, are on sale from the Town Hall Box Office on 0845 111 2900. It will be £40 for entry on the door.
