WALLSEND heavyweight David Ferguson is relishing being a pro boxer after thinking he’d blown his chance big time. Ferguson has won both of his fights since joining the Tommy Conroy stable in Sunderland but remembers with a shudder when he squandered an opportunity to join Frank Maloney, one-time manager of world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis. “I had won my first 10 amateur fights and Maloney told me that if I won the final of the Novices competition he would buy me out of the Army and turn me pro,” said Ferguson. “But I boxed terribly, lost, and that was that. “I’ve always wanted to go professional and was delighted when Tommy Conroy took me on. I’m 30 now, which is not a big age for a heavyweight. I’m more mature and experienced. “Frankly, I can’t wait for the new season to begin. I want to have three fights before the year is out if at all possible.” Ironically, both of Ferguson’s wins were against the same opponent, David Ingleby, the first time at the North Eastern Sporting Club dinner show and the second time at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland. “It was funny for me and all my mates who were in the crowd to be at Sunderland’s ground when we’re all staunch Newcastle supporters,” he said, “but the atmosphere was terrific. “I’m glad I fought Ingleby twice because he’s a tough guy and I showed the second time that I have improved by beating him more convincingly.” Ferguson, who comes from a fighting family, made his name in the amateur ranks with the famous Birtley club before joining Newcastle East End where his younger brother and cousin Lee currently perform. “My brother is also called David, which gets everyone mixed up,” smiled Ferguson. “So sometimes I go under my full name of David Mark.” | 
