Keri is first female to join Manning stable
Keri Webster signs pro forms with Anthony Manning
ANTHONY Manning, a manager and promoter who appears intent on trampling the traditional order of things, has emerged as a controversial figure on Birmingham’s boxing scene.
But, like him or hate him, you can’t knock the former pro fighter’s work ethic.
Since becoming a manager 12 months ago, Manning, who stages shows under the Nxt Gen brand, has signed-up 14 fighters.
Frankly, I’m losing track of those who have joined his stable. The man appears in a hurry to make his mark.
Last week alone he unveiled four more new faces to the media. Manning seems set on building a mini empire.
Some have signed – or are about to sign - after a combat or white collar background and are unknowns to this writer.
The new faces do include Manning’s first female fighter – and I’ve been informed she has a mass following.
Keri Webster, from Burntwood, reckons she’ll shift 300 tickets for her October debut. If correct, that is some going.
“I have a lot of support, a lot of friends,” said the 32-year-old mum-of-two.
The super-bantam is something of a mystery, having turned over after 11 kick-boxing contests. She’s training at Daz Turner’s Fortress gym in Solihull having originally been under the tutelage of Gavin Burrows.
In those 11 fights, she claimed Midlands, English, British and European belts. That is, frankly, astonishing. That is the world of kick-boxing.
Keri, who fits hair extensions during the day, has taken the plunge after a long period away from the ring.
“I had five years out partly because I did all the 11 fights in such a short space of time,” she said. “I felt I needed a break. It was also hard to mix the sport with bringing up two young children.
“Now seemed the right time (to come back). The children have grown up that little bit more (the eldest is 12) and my dad is totally behind me. He is my biggest fan.”
Keri promises to bring fireworks to the ring.
“I’m a fighter,” she said. “Being fast and strong is one thing, but being a fighter is a mindset. I’m an aggressive fighter who doesn’t give up.”
Keri added: “I have a vision. I can see the future unfold before me.”
Manning has also signed Peter Ogiamien, a light-heavy who recently moved to Birmingham. “He’s from a martial arts background,” said the manager. “He’s done some sparring and looks strong. He’s learning his craft.”
Even Manning admits he’s not sure what the 28-year-old can achieve and Ogiamien knows he may have to take his chances on the road. “Because he’s new to Birmingham, he doesn’t believe he’ll have people breaking down the door to see his debut.”
Super-feather Marcel Drzewicki is a Derby based 21-year-old with 30 amateur contests under his belt. “He’s a sharp box-fighter,” said Manning.
Light-welter Lewis Varley, from Sutton Coldfield, is from the white collar circuit. He’s a 24-year-old who wants to be an active pro. He, too, is prepared to travel to secure bouts.