Jack Flatley targets big 2020 after getting back on track

The Farnworth fighter rebounded from losing his English title in September by picking up a points win over Alistair Warren at the Bolton Whites Hotel on Saturday night.

Defeat to Harry Scarff live on Channel 5 at the same venue less than three months earlier, a first professional loss, had been a real setback for the 25-year-old super welterweight.

But by ending the year on a high, Flatley is hoping he has got himself back in the mix domestically heading into the new year.

Scott Fitzgerald, Anthony Fowler and Ted Cheeseman have all been part of engaging TV fights in the 154lb division in recent months and Elite Boxing’s finest wants to be part of that shake-up.

“I could have waited until next year and started again but I didn't want to do that,” he said after picking up his 16th win as a professional in front of a home crowd.

Flatley has his hand raised in victory. Picture: Karen Priestley

“I didn't want to end the year on a loss.

“Now I'm back to winning ways and next year there should be some big offers to come.

“I've got to sit down with my manager (Steve Wood) about what's next and hopefully there'll be some things on the table.

“I'm going to have a little break over Christmas but hopefully the next fight, and if not, certainly the one after, is going to be big fight.

“It's a busy division. There's plenty of big fights around and I want to be in the title mix.”

Having served his time on small hall shows, his last five fights having come at the Bolton Whites Hotel, Flatley is eager to be under the bright lights on the big stage in the coming months.

Once under contract to major promoter Frank Warren, he is however ready to bide his time if necessary if the right fight comes along.

“Ideally it would be the end of February or March when I’m back in the ring,” Flatley said.

“But I'm at the stage of my career where if I need to wait a little longer for the right opportunity then I'll do that.

“I'm always in the gym and will be ready.”

Backed by around 100 fans on Saturday night, Flatley took the verdict 59-55 after six rounds against Warren, a veteran of the circuit well known for being in hard fights and occasionally causing a big upset.

For someone who fights regularly, the 32-year-old visitor had not fought for nearly two months meaning the home favourite was ready for a tough test.

“He's been beaten by a lot of good fighters but also beaten a few too,” Flatley said.

“He can be a big of a bogeyman.

“He lost his last fight and then went away and made sure he was right for this one.

“I felt really good in there though and really strong.

“Having a loss on my record has really given me that bit between my teeth. I wanted to show what I was about.”