Finland station: Alan Higgins, left, CJ Hussein and champ Juho Haapoja

Published: 13 September, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

TOP trainer CJ Hussein is hoping that the younger fighters he trains at St Pancras Amateur Boxing Club in Kentish Town will draw inspiration from what promises to be an explosive show on Saturday.

The Saints coach is in Finland preparing European cruiser-weight champion Juho Haapoja for his third title defence against Italian rival Francesco Versaci.

Former St Pancras amateur star Alan Higgins, who lives in Kilburn, will also be on the show as he prepares for his second professional outing against Richard Hajdu.

The 24-year-old middleweight will have to be at his best over the four-round challenge, especially as CJ is hoping to line him up for a shot at a southern title within the next 12 months.

“Both fighters have put in the hours back at our gym and are perfect role models for the young boys looking to make a name for themselves,” said CJ.

“Juho and Alan are true professionals and I hope all the boys can learn something from having them around the gym. After Saturday both will go on to have title fights that our amateur fighters can draw inspiration from.”