HARWICH’S John Wheatley is in confident mood ahead of his return to the boxing ring.

The professional suffered a major blow after fracturing his orbital bone (inner eye socket) during a sparring session last autumn.

He had to have surgery but was always adamant he would return to the sport.

Now he has recovered and has his next fight lined up for May 14, in Braintree (see also page five).

His opponent is yet to be confirmed – but he is confident he can beat anyone and is focused on climbing the ranks, to start working towards domestic title contention.

“My training has gone well and my confidence is building, along with my fitness,” said Wheatley, “It’s been an emotional and physical struggle coming back from such a serious injury but, as the weeks leading up to the fight have gone on, I can feel myself going from strength to strength.

“I believe my performance will reflect that on the night.

“I’ve been working a lot on being more busy and boxing with a higher work-rate, but also without taking unnecessary risks.

“I know from experience that one mistake can cost you the fight and a lot more as well.

“There are some great bouts lined up for the show and some really talented, exciting fighters on display.

“My opponent hasn’t been confirmed yetbut I’m confident I’ll be able to deal with any problems they might pose on the night.”

Reflecting on his injury, Wheatley added: “The main thing to stress is that although we take every precaution, every sport, especially professional boxing, comes with the risk of injury.

“However, hopefully this is just a small setback on my way towards big things in the sport.

“I’d hate for this to somehow negatively affect how people see the sport.

“It was just a freak accident in what was a good, tidy and well-balanced sparring session.”

Wheatley won his first professional fight last October, defeating Matt Seawright in a welterweight bout in Grays.

According to boxing database Boxrec.com, he became Harwich’s first pro boxer in almost 80 years – since Fred Goodchild in 1936.

Now he is hoping for another success in Braintree.

“It’s a great opportunity for anyone who hasn’t been to a professional boxing show to come and watch,” he said.

“Tickets are available from myself and I can be contacted through Facebook.“I appreciate all the support I received from my friends and family and would love to expand that fanbase as my career progresses.”

Wheatley has thanked all his sponsorsfor their support and backing – Concord Properties, D Robertson Landscapes, Dovercourt DIY and Shakers Bar.