HARWICH’S John Wheatley is set to become the town’s first professional boxer in almost 80 years.

The 27-year-old is fighting in a welterweight bout on October 17.

It will be his first fight since progressing from the amateur ranks.

And according to boxing database Boxrec.com, he will be Harwich’s first pro in well over half a century – since Fred Goodchild in 1936.

Wheatley is no stranger to success in the ring, having won senior elite Essex and Eastern Counties titles in 2014. Now he is hoping to shine on the biggest stage of his career.

“I’ll be ready for anything,” he said, ahead of the fight against an opponent yet to be confirmed, at Grays Civic Hall.

“I’m concentrating on improving myself and adapting to the professional style of boxing.

“I rarely have any nerves at the thought of competing and believe fights are won or lost in the gym, in the weeks leading up to the event.

“But I’m fully confident in my new team and coach Russell Smith.

“So far, my training has gone well and that confidence will follow through to fight night.”