The pride of Stoke and a Potters fan favorite, Nathan ‘Hitman’ Heaney is one of Britain’s most promising up-and-coming middleweight boxers writes Noah Abrahams.

Unbeaten in twelve (12-0-0, 4 KOs), the 32-year-old steps back through the ropes on 28th August, competing in his third bout of the year on Frank Warren’s ‘Night of Champions’ show in Birmingham.

With the clock ticking and an opponent still yet to be confirmed, Heaney explained that despite the situation, he remains positive ahead of fight night.

“There have been four lads that I have said “yes” to so far,” he said.

“One rejected it, I had a Mexican who got red listed, and I had a lad from Colombia, but there was a visa issue.

“I’m not counting my chickens because it’s been four times that they have said “no”.

“It is what it is, but whatever happens, I’m going to have a good fight on the night.”

With under two weeks to go until Heaney steps back through the ropes, Staffordshire’s golden boy is training hard to ensure that he claims victory in the West Midlands.

Hoping to take inspiration from Stoke City’s unbeaten start to the Championship season, Heaney shared the impact of uncertainty when training.

“It can affect it in terms of the tactics,” he said.

“You should always keep the same intensity regardless of how you train, but it can affect it a little bit.

“Luckily, I’m ambitious and I’m very motivated, so it doesn’t affect me like that.”

Well known for his fan base, Heaney has won the hearts of his home town, subsequently gaining a reputation as the best ticket seller in the business.

Backed by a loyal following post-lockdown, the ‘Hitman’ exclaimed his excitement to re-unite with his supporters.

“It’s going to be incredible to have them back. Wait until you hear them,” he said.

“Last time I had 600 fans who went to Telford and this time I’m going to have a minimum of 1500.

“It’s going to be mint.”

Ready to be serenaded with Tom Jones’ Delilah live on BT Sport from the Utilita Arena, the ‘Stokie’ thanked those who have already purchased tickets to the event later this month.

“I’m the biggest ticket seller in the country because of Stoke on Trent,” he said.

“I just want to say thank you to everyone and thank you to Stoke City Football Club.”