Launceston trainer Craig Tobler is boldly predicting a strong professional career ahead for Layton McFerran.
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Just one fight in from stepping out of amateur ranks, the Lilydale fighter on social media had even called his first win the “perfect debut”.
McFerran was dominant against Victorian opponent Ashley Risztics, recording a technical knockout win inside 30 seconds of round two.
The lightweight may have been surprised with the ease of it all, but Tobler wasn’t.
“We knew how strong Layton was at that 60-kilo weight,” Tobler said.
“You can’t always expect to win, especially in your first [professional] fight.
“But we kind of had an idea that the fight would be stopped due to his strength.”
The referee was forced to step early in the four-round bout after the previously unbeaten rival took a barrage of blows to the head and body.
The signs were good from the outset when McFerran dropped his opponent in the opening round with a straight right hand to the chin.
“His body shots were very clean and crisp – and were always landing,” Tobler said.
The Launceston Boxing Club coach felt fear of an 0-1 start drove the 19-year-old.
“You don’t really know, do you?” Tobler said. “We just wanted to fight professionally like he did as an amateur.”
Andrew Mathieson
The day I realised I wasn't good enough to play for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's the back story behind the game.
The day I realised I wasn't good enough to play for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's the back story behind the game.
