Brad Coley switches to Manning’s team

Brad Coley and trainer James Thomas…back in action in May

FLYWEIGHT prospect Brad Coley has switched Birmingham camps and signed for Anthony Manning.

The 24-year-old, a product of Kingstanding’s 2nd City amateur club, will have his first fight for the new manager on Manning’s May 31 show at the Eastside Rooms, Birmingham.

Under Jon Pegg, “Lights Out” Coley notched-up six straight wins. Brad last fought in November when he completed the eight distance for the first time.

Manning said: “Me and Brad have had a chat. He says he brings the crowd and wants to push on for titles.

“He’ll fight on May 31 and we’ll push on from there. We’ll look for titles at flyweight or super-fly – it depends where he is going to get the opportunities.

“He was a good amateur, I watched him in the amateurs for years. He wants a fresh start. He wants to be with someone who is the same mind. He loves the environment at our gym.”

Coley, from Erdington, has a sound amateur foundation. At junior level, he won four Midlands titles and twice reached national finals. He did not compete as a senior, taking a sabbatical from the sport.

As a pro trained by James Thomas, he has impressed, but is yet to register a stoppage.

Of the change, Brad said: “It suited us at this time. We get along with Anthony well. We fight again in May and then I’m ready for whatever. I want to compete at flyweight – I walk around at 53kg (8st 4lbs).

“I’ll take whatever opportunities come up. I’m happy, it’s different, it suits us better. I think it’s going to be a big year.”

Trainer Thomas has unwavering belief in his boxer.

In a previous interview, he said: “I believe this kid can go all the way.

“The more rounds he does, the better he gets. We have a clear plan and have travelled all over the country to spar the best in the country to gain experience of the different styles needed.”