REPORT BY: JAMES BOVINGTON

BRADFORD bare knuckle boxer Shane Robinson is hoping to bring home the Spartan Fight Club’s featherweight title when he competes in his third gloveless bout on the promotion’s Fight Fest Five on Saturday.

The event is set to be held in Mirfield in an open-air show organised by Spartan Warz.

“I’ve always been a fighter,” said Robinson, 33, who goes by the moniker Badger BKF.

“After I moved to Bradford to sort my life out five years ago, I saw an advert online for Spartan and immediately thought this is a way to fight legally and hopefully make a name for myself.  

“Perhaps I wanted to become a role model for young lads who need to prove just what they’re made of as well. I lost my first bout and won the second and I’m hoping for a quick knockout in Mirfield.”

The Mirfield fight will be in a hay bale pit in a field, which Robinson says adds to the raw appeal of bare knuckle. 

“I respect my opponent and look forward to meeting him on the day, however my aim like that of every fighter is to win the match. 

“This is for the promotion’s British featherweight New Bloods title over five two-minute rounds.  We’re aware that there can be serious damage and my opponent’s face won’t be pretty at the end, but there’s danger in all combat sports. 

“The adrenaline rush outweighs all risk. Fighting bare knuckle gives me a safe place to channel frustration or anger into something I enjoy and do well. It’s therapy allowing us to put on a show while fighting our own demons.”

A painter and decorator by trade, Leeds born ‘Badger’ is keen to encourage as many as possible to attend. 

He said: “There’s never any trouble. Were there to be problems they’ll be dealt with correctly and efficiently. 

“Bare knuckle boxing has improved my life beyond measure. I have a purpose. I was sick of getting into trouble and taking drugs. It got me nowhere. 

“Now I’m in a decent place and I’m preparing to box for a title.”

Robinson is grateful to his wife Sarah for her unstinting support but needs sponsors to progress in the sport. 

He said: “She’s focused on helping me achieve my ambition. Nevertheless, I’m mainly self-taught and self-trained as personal coaching is currently beyond my means.

“I’ve got loads of potential and would welcome sponsors both to progress my career and help make the bare-knuckle scene more mainstream.”

Individuals or companies interested in sponsoring Robinson can contact him via Facebook at Badger BKF or e-mail at badgerwilson91@outlook.com .