Barry McGuigan Profiles Cyclone Promotions Fighters - KnockOut London Magazine S2 E3

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There's an art to investing in the future. It can often lead to a lack of success in the here-and-now of fickle sports such as football. However, Barry McGuigan has masterminded a crop of young talent ready to launch their assault on both domestic and World level. Big guys, small guys, aggresive women, super-talented amateurs. I took a look at the Cyclone stable from the outside-in, ready for a big year ahead;

Josh Taylor
11-0, 10KOs
Super lightweight
You'd struggle to find a more conclusive 'breakout' star of 2017, than Prestonpans' own Josh Taylor. The 'Tartan Tornado' fought four times, including; a bout in the MGM Grand, a massive domestic clash with Ohara Davies and an impressive stoppage win against durable former World champion Miguel Vasquez. His exceptional amateur pedigree and fluid shot selection have made him a fans' favourite on British soil, with a World title shot sitting just outwith his grasp. Taylor is the jewel in Cyclone Promotions' crown and looks set to kick-off the new year in similar fashion as he attempts to conquer former multiple-weight World champion Humberto Soto in March. Keep an eye on his near-perfect boxing on the inside and that now-famed and devastating McGuigan body work which has dominated Cyclones' last two cards. This is one British fighter who looks that little bit special!

Chantelle Cameron
5-0, 4KOs
Lightweight
Destructive. Exciting. Vicious. Northampton's IBO World lightweight champion Chantelle Cameron has thrilled fight fans since turning professional, adding a savage element to the sometimes-tame female weight divisions. 'Wham Bam Chan' boasts an 80% stoppage ratio, with a devastating come-forward style, often swarming opponents with her relentless pressure. The softly-spoken Cameron has told of her organic bond with coach Shane McGuigan, the pairs' work together has thus far proved fruitful. A mega-clash with Natasha Jonas or Katie Taylor seeming possible, who'd bet against her? Cameron has the potential to win over the fence-sitting fans who claim that women's boxing 'doesn't interest them', sparring men frequently at the gym and from what I hear; dishing out some punishment.

Chris Billam-Smith
4-0, 4KOs
Cruiserweight
Bournemouth's finest, big Chris has enjoyed a perfect start to life in the paid ranks. With the domestic frenzy around the cruiserweight division, it would be fair for us to expect a step-up in class over the next twelve months as 'The Gentleman' looks to interrupt certain #BritishBeef. Billam-Smith was a well-revered amateur, transitioning nicely into an altogether different sport under the tutelage of Shane McGuigan. He loves a body shot (don't they all?) but has also used his range well, picking his shots in order to tuck away his victims. The South coast could have a star on their hands here, as 'CBS' brings out big numbers when fighting at home. However, how quickly will we see him progress, in a division which boasts names such as; Askin, Iqbal, Watkins, Camacho, Okolie, Chamberlain, Simmons and Vallily? I have a sneaking suspicion he'd fancy a few of them now!

Lee McGregor
2-0, 2KOs
Bantamweight
Overcoming adversity will be nothing new to Lee McGregor. Having had his fair share of personal trials and tribulations to overcome, it seems the electric talent is now ready to leave a footprint on one of Britain's smaller divisions. Currently two fights in, with two knockouts, 'Lightening' Lee faces off against Scott Allan - a former Scottish champion with a winning record. McGregor is an incredible talent, with Barry McGuigan making bets at the latest Cyclone presser that he will be a British champion by the end of the year. He is calm, accurate and wastes none of his work. Time will tell as to who quickly McGregor will rise to British level, however he has an inner strength and determination matched by few. There are murmurs of Lee McGregor's capacity for greatness, now it's up to him and the Cyclone team to ensure his path is paved in gold.

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