Jones set for Friday showdown

MICHAEL Alldis says Ben Jones will put his last memory of York Hall behind him when he fights there again on Friday night.

The 27-year-old super featherweight is set to fight at the famous old venue for the first time since he controversially drew there with Gavin Reid in September.

But his manager Alldis says Jones will not be thinking of that result on Friday.

He said: "Ben is a professional and you have to be able to put results like that behind you. Everyone who saw that fight knows the decision was a joke but you have to move on.

"I know he will be 100 per cent focussed and concentrating on what's in front of him as this is a very busy month for him."

After fighting on Friday night Jones will again be in action in Crawley on February 27 when he will defend his International Masters Title against Welshman Jason Thomas.

"He has fought a few tough guys and is experienced at this level so it should be a good test for Ben.

"My Crawley show will be a busy night of boxing as we now have eight fights planned."

Meanwhile fellow professional Robin Deakin is hoping to get back in the ring in the next three months after changing trainers.

The popular 23-year-old, who has lost 21 of his 22 fights, has not fought since being knocked out in the third round against Chris Higgs last April.

However, after taking a break from the sport Deakin is back in training with a new coach.

He left Graham Earl and has now teamed up with Mickey Helliet.

Helliet, who has worked with Danny Williams, has said he intends to find Deakin winnable fights rather than put the youngster in with better fighters at short notice.

Deakin said: "Mickey is a nice bloke and I trust him to get my career back on track. Before I was taking hard fights with just two days' notice, the money was good but it wasn't good for my health taking so many beatings.

"I almost lost my licence and I think I was badly advised.

"I know I have some ability and I want my record to reflect that. People will see a new Robin Deakin this year."

For tickets to either fight call Ben Jones on 07720 045 566.