COLLIE Boxing Club’s ‘Lethal’ Liam Vernon is preparing for the biggest fight of his career.
On November 21, Liam will journey to the Perth Italian Club in Northbridge for his debut professional fight in the middle weight section.
The contest will be fought over four, three-minute rounds.
The nickname was given to him in his motocross days and has followed him into the boxing ring.
His trainer John Hinsey said the boxer turning pro was a huge coup for the South West.
“This is huge for the gym, huge for the South West and huge for Collie,” he said.
“For someone to step up and become a pro boxer is incredible.”
Mr Hinsey said Liam had what it takes to make it to the top.
“Liam has been training twice a day, seven days a week,” he said.
“That is what it takes to turn pro.
“His footwork is sensational and he is putting in his combinations really well.
“The thing with Liam is that he's dedicated, he put's 110 per cent in.”
Now 28, Liam has been boxing since he was 10 years old, but stepped up his commitment six years ago.
He credits the boxing family for getting him to where he is today.
“Boxing keeps you out of trouble,” he said.
“It keeps you healthy.
“Before boxing I used to drink a fair bit – now I couldn't tell you the last time I went to the pub.”
With a record of 12 fights including eight wins and two knock-outs, Vernon believes he is ready for the step up.
“It was a goal of mine since I started boxing to have a competitive fight.
“Now I have competed with the best in the state as an amateur – now I hope to compete with the best as a professional, and maybe compete for a state title.
“I’m reaching my physical peak.”
Mr Hinsey said the Collie boxing family were very close knit, and everyone had worked hard to help Liam chase his dream.
“It’s absolutely sensational,” he said
“For Liam it’s a big step up – but he’s tough enough to do it and he is a tough young man,”
“He’s got a strong chin, and he has the heart of a lion.”
“It takes a tough character to step up to what he’s doing.”
Liam has had to juggle his work life as an electrician at Muja Power Station, being a family man and his boxing career.
“He’s got the support of his wife and everyone at the gym here,” Mr Hinsey said.
“He will continue to be lethal when he gets out of here.”
While completely focus-ed on the job at hand, Liam also gives back to the community.
The boxer also trains the younger boxers.
“If he sees someone’s struggling, he’ll be there to help him,” Mr Hinsey said.
“He's always giving tips to the younger boxers.
“He's not just an individual – he’s a team boxer.”
