Sam targets world title after British success

Nov 2 2011 by Andrew Weston, Wishaw Press

Sam Allan

RIVALS Gym kickboxing sensation Sam Allan hopes to become a world champion within two years.

The 20-year-old recently became WKA British light-welterweight champion, having claimed the Scottish title back in July.

It follows his distinguished career in the amateur ranks, where he dominated his division and won numerous British, European and world belts.

His day Stuart, who’s Scottish President of the WKA, said: “We sat down quite recently and set out a two-year plan. We hope to land a chance at the world title within that time frame.

“Becoming British champion is a great achievement but Sam knows there is a big jump to world level.

“We know how hard it is. There is currently a Russian lad who holds the title and I cannot see anyone taking the belt off him anytime soon.”

Allan, who is coached by former world kickboxing champion Jan Cree, turned professional last year and has won all five of his fights, only one of which has gone the distance.

Having defeated Kirkintilloch fighter Stuart Pinter to claim the Scottish belt, he then fought experienced Lincoln ace Aaron Robinson at the Cleland Club for the British version in September.

In an explosive contest, where both fighters went toe-to-toe, Sam got the decision in round eight after Robinson was unable to continue due to a cut eye.

Stewart added: “Aaron has been a professional for a few years and is a highly regarded fighter within the sport.

“He came up thinking he was going to have an easy night of it but was stopped in the eighth.

“Sam trained hard for this fight and it showed when he entered the ring.”

The Allanton lad hopes to defend his British belt next month and has been lined up to fight for the vacant European title in March next year.

Former European champion Stuart Lawson is his likely opponent.

Stewart expects his son’s seamless transition into the professional circuit to continue.

He said: “He will probably need three fights before a European bout but, having enjoyed such a long amateur career, the transition into the professional rank has been pretty easy. He has had a solid grounding.”

l Sam would like to thank coach Jan Cree and sponsor The Station Hotel, Shotts for all their help since he turned professional.