In the demanding world of professional boxing, a perfect 7-0 record after just 14 months is a significant marker. Stephen Newns, the 27-year-old Scot, has achieved precisely this, with his sights set on becoming 8-0 later this month. Yet, unlike some prospects thrust immediately into the national spotlight, Newns is deliberately charting a course slightly away from the primary television glare, a strategy he believes is crucial for long-term development.
His next test comes against Jordan Grannum at the Oldham Leisure Centre on Saturday, July 26th. This venue is becoming something of a home away from home for Newns, who has fought five of his seven professional bouts there. Managed and promoted by Kevin Maree, these shows provide Newns with valuable ring time. Coupled with his father hailing from Salford, just a stone`s throw away, guaranteed local support ensures the atmosphere is always electric.
Newns isn`t avoiding the spotlight out of necessity, but by choice. He articulates a clear rationale: “There are benefits to not being with a big TV promoter. Prospects with big TV promoters are struggling to get on shows, while I’ve been getting the rounds in, learning how to pace a fight in the pros.” It`s a pragmatic approach, prioritising the accumulation of experience and refining his craft over chasing immediate fame. He adds, “I see myself with a big TV promoter in the future. I have the quality to be on the big TV shows.” It`s not a lack of ambition, but a calculated delay.
This strategic patience is underpinned by a remarkably deep amateur foundation. With over 107 amateur bouts, more than half at international level, Newns possesses a breadth of experience rarely seen in young professionals. He competed in two Commonwealth Games (2018 and 2022) and travelled extensively, boxing in Serbia, Russia (four times), Ukraine, and Romania. “I have seen every style,” he states, listing opponents from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Africa, and even Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack before his pro turn. This rigorous amateur apprenticeship provides a diverse toolkit for navigating the complexities of the professional ranks.
Newns keeps a keen eye on the Scottish boxing scene, acknowledging the impressive performance of former amateur teammate Nathaniel Collins against Lee McGregor and expressing belief in Willy Hutchinson`s future. This suggests an awareness of his place within a vibrant national landscape and the potential pathways ahead.
His journey is also grounded in reality. Living and breathing boxing since age 11, Newns acknowledges the financial realities, having balanced his boxing career with university and part-time work. “I`m not living the Floyd Mayweather lifestyle. I have to get by,” he notes candidly. This down-to-earth perspective fuels his drive and underscores the importance of building a sustainable career, brick by painstaking brick.
Boxing is also in his blood. His father, Stephen Newns Sr., was a notable figure in Scottish amateur boxing, winning a national title and later coaching the 2006 Commonwealth Games team. Newns reflects on his father`s era with a touch of historical perspective: “Dad had around 130 amateurs. They were different times. You would get a call saying: `You’re boxing tonight`, and that would be it.” He contrasts his father`s “come-forward pressure fighter” style – more stocky and robust – with his own build: “I’m tall and lean and like to keep it long.” It`s a fascinating glimpse into boxing lineage and evolving styles.
This taller, leaner style is what Jordan Grannum will face. Grannum`s extensive record (12-164-5) speaks volumes about his experience and durability. Newns recognises this: “Technically he’s good and I know he’s tough.” Such opponents, who have seen countless styles, are valuable tests for a fighter still “transitioning from the amateurs,” as Newns puts it. They force a boxer to adapt and learn on the fly.
Stephen Newns is not a prospect taking the path of least resistance or chasing immediate headline glamour. He is a fighter with a deep amateur pedigree, carefully constructing his professional edifice round by round, fight by fight, in the trenches of local shows. His perfect record is not just a number, but a testament to a strategic, patient approach aimed at building a robust, long-term career capable of eventually thriving under the brightest lights.
