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Darlington’s Steve Cooper makes his ring return on home soil next month after an unexpected eleven-month hiatus from the sport.

Originally born in Ashington, into a military family, his father was in the Royal Air Force, the Cooper’s moved away when Steven was four, ending up in Darlington where a strong network of family and friends are behind the now light heavyweight boxer.

June last year would see Cooper step up to six rounds when in Essex against Paul Hilz, getting back on track after a derby loss to then local rival, Sam Best. After Hilz though personal reasons put him on the back-burner and now he’s aiming to make up for lost time.

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“I’ve had my foot on the gas for the past six-eight weeks and very much looking forward to getting back in the ring,” said Cooper.

“I had a few fights in the pipeline last year but they never materialised then I had to take some personal time. I’ve still been training non-stop (with Mike Hall) and have changed my style somewhat after the last fight, feeling more comfortable in the ring.”

With sparring of choice coming at the evergreen David Binns’ gym in Peterlee, Cooper is looking to pick up where he left off against Hilz, just not quite as fast.

“I knew I had to pull off either a good performance, or stop him,” added Cooper of his Essex trip.

“However I went flat out for the first five rounds and wore myself down let alone Hilz. We knew that one punch would have finished it I just kept backing out. Now, with the help of sparring with (Jonson) McClumpha and the lads I’ve got greater confidence for coming back and I’ll take whatever is in front of, especially as the fight is in Darlington as well.”

In promoter Steve Wraith, the likes of Cooper are grateful of his ‘setting up camp’ in Darlington, ensuring more boxing across the region and giving him, Hepper, Creighton and more the chance to appear in front of their own support.

“We have a great night of professional boxing and some great fights lined up,” added Steve.

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“Darlington is a hotbed for boxing and this is a fantastic opportunity to bring shows here. If we can get this first one right, then we can build on it and make this town a bastion for boxing.

“We couldn’t be where we are today without the support of local communities and the sponsorship of Grosvenor Casino who, not only have they been with me from the start in Newcastle, but the Stockton establishment is proudly sponsoring this show as well.”

Sponsored by Grosvenor Casino Stockton and Bijou Darlington, venue for the official after-party, Friday 13 Fight Night takes place at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington on May 13. Doors open at 6:30pm, first fight 7:30pm and tickets are on sale now priced at £35 standard and £75 VIP from the PBNG Ticket Office

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