Fighting Scots Gym stars to fight in Malta

Scott McIntyre and Stuart Maxwell will both be battling it out on a 12-fight card which is being headlined by Hamilton’s former British Champion Scott Dixon.

Scott (28), of Nimmo Place, Carnwath, told Times Sport he is confident that boiling temperatures of 34 degrees won’t disrupt his hopes of victory over Maltese professional fighter Daniel Micalles in a six-round 67kg contest, being held outdoors in the Ta’ Qali Basketball Pavilion.

“I’m more than capable of winning this fight if the real Scott McIntyre turns up,” said the Fighting Scots Gym ace.

“If that happens, it should be an easy night’s work for me.

“But I’m a Jekyll and Hyde character; I never know what Scott is going to turn up.

“I don’t think the hot weather will be a hindrance to me. I’ve been training for 12 to 15 hours a week and feel quite fresh. I’m 110 per cent confident of winning.”

Coatbridge man Stuart, meanwhile, will be contesting a four round novice contest against a Maltese opponent.

Fighting Scots Gym supremo and fight promoter Frank Gilhooley said: “Stuart will be the fourth fight on.

“He is very fit, trains very hard and is dedicated to his boxing.

“Both he and Scott will be going for victory right from the first bell. Scott is a very powerful hitter who punches above his weight.

“I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully we’ll see a couple of wins for our fighters.”

Scott – who has been boxing for 14 years – had a career highlight in 2012 when winning his individual bout fighting for Scotland in a team contest against England.

He’s recently had three fights in semi professional smaller gloves contests and has recorded a win, a draw and a no contest.

Coached by his dad William – a former amateur boxer – he also enjoys expert guidance from Fighting Scots Gym supremo Frank.

Scott, Stuart and Frank will fly out to Malta tomorrow (Thursday) and will return to the UK on Sunday night.

“I’ve always wanted to see Malta,” Scott said.

“Hopefully I’ll get the chance to do a bit of sightseeing when I’m over there.

“I will need to pace myself due to the fact that it’s going to be really hot over there.

“But I’m just back from a two-week holiday in Mexico where the temperatures were similarly sweltering, so hopefully that will help when it comes to dealing with the heat in Malta.”

Up to 500 fight fans are expected to see the Maltese boxing contests; Malta is a country where boxing enjoys a very high profile and is popular with a number of the locals.

“I have never fought outside the UK before,” Scott added. “This is a first for me but I’ve done my homework so I’ll be all right.”

Find out how the fighters fare in Malta in next week’s sport.