Featherweight propspect Emran Hussain is aiming to change the perception of ‘white-collar’ boxing when he returns to the ring next Saturday.

Just a year after his first competitive amateur bout his coach advised him to try UKBU – a high-standard of white collar – as it would suit his style better.

Having entered the promotion in 2014, the 25-year-old went on to win and defend their lightweight belt, remaining undefeated in three years.

He then turned professional under Essex’s Alec Wilkey earlier this year and impressed on his professional debut against Ricky Leach.

Next weekend, Hussain will return to the ring on Steve Goodwin’s ‘Heaven or Hell’ card and reckons his background has been beneficial.

He said:

“I know white collar has a bad reputation in boxing circles, but I couldn’t say it didn’t help me.

“I fought for three years, remained unbeaten and held their lightweight title, I was late too boxing anyway so it made sense for me.

“There’s a few organisations now where it seems more to be about the individual and for them to say ‘I box’.

“But for me it was always with the goal of turning pro, I hope I’m showing there’s more to it than just swinging.”

Hussain impressed many on his professional boxing debut with his slick footwork and shot selection, but reckons his next outing will be even better.

“I could have got the stoppage in my debut, my coach was giving instructions and I followed the game plan.

Everything I was getting complimented on, I learned in UKBU, so it’s not all bad!

I’m looking to get the work done nice and early on Saturday, I really believe I can make a mark on this division.”

Emran can be found on Twitter and Instagram: @emranhussain_

(Top image source and credit: Emran Hussain Instagram)