Just over a year ago, two friends began a boxing YouTube channel which includes a weekly fan show. They wanted to engage with boxing fans from around the globe and share views with some of the biggest names in the sport.
Carl Widdowson and Andy Graley who both live in Clifton, present the Live Last Bell Boxing show every Thursday between 7pm – 8pm. They look to preview upcoming fights, with one objective: To give boxing fans a voice and a platform to debate views with other boxing fans from around the world.
We spoke with Carl recently and asked him a few questions:
Where and when did your love for boxing begin?
“The first fight I remember watching is the Hagler vs Ray Leonard fight in 1987 when I was around 8 years old, and this hooked me into boxing. Other early memories are the Tyson Vs Bruno fight in 89 and also the Benn vs Eubank in 1990.”
What made you start a YouTube Channel?
“I have watched many fights on TV and wanted to share my views and thoughts post fight regarding judges score cards, referee performances and general viewpoints about fights. This would often involve ‘Whatsapp’ messages flying around with mates regarding the fight. I realised that there are probably fight fans around the world who have no platform to debate results or controversial fights, so I discussed this with my friend Andy Graley and sourced his opinion. Andy thought this was a great idea and agreed to co present the channel with me.”
Do you have a favourite interview so far?
“We have been fortunate as a channel to interview some of the biggest names in boxing. We have interviewed Golden boy legend Roberto Diaz, Paul Smith jnr, Female World Champion Natasha Jonas and Nottingham’s very own world champion Leigh Wood. In terms of a favourite interview I have enjoyed all the interviews gaining a great insight from them. Special mention must go to Local boxing legend Carl Greaves who has offered great support to my channel since we launched.”
Do you have a boxer you’d love to interview?
“This question is simple “ Carl “The Cobra” Froch”. Carl if you get to read this, I’m looking forward to hearing from you!”
Do you have any plans or future ideas for your channel?
“I would like to go on record in thanking the great Nottingham public who have offered us support since launching. Future plans are to continue to grow the channel and to continue to support the local Nottingham boxing scene. I would also like to give a special mention to Andy Graley, my co presenter who has worked tirelessly with me in growing the channel.”
If you are a boxing fan who has an opinion we are the platform to share your views. Please find the YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMLCHlUMFps_Sgra5PLgqg
They are supporting a local boxing event ‘an audience with Leigh Wood’ on the 24th June. Tickets can be purchased at the Southbank City Bar or you can also go online and purchase via Gigantic.com / The Southbank Bar. Tickets are only £20.
