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Welcome to Astley V.I.P Professional Boxing

Astley V.I.P Pro Boxing was formed in 2010 by British Boxing Board of Control licenced manager and trainer Damian Jones, and is based in the town of Astley, Wigan. For Damian this is a return to his roots, having learnt about boxing and training boxers from his father - Richard Jones - who managed and trained professional boxers in the 1980's and 1990's.

Richard Jones formed Leigh ABC in 1980, originally taking premises behind the Boars Head pub in the town and a few years later moving to Briarcroft Youth Club in Howe Bridge. Over a short period of time Richard turned Leigh ABC from a new club to one of the most successful clubs in the area and when one of his amateur boxers - Sean Daly - wanted to turn professional he insisted on Richard staying with him as his manager and trainer, despite opportunities to go with other trainers.

Over the years Richard managed a variety of boxers from the Leigh, Warrington and St.Helens areas, whilst also attracting a number of boxers from further away including Stockport, Sheffield and the North Wales coast. Although success wasn't always guaranteed there were notable performances from boxers like Mike Phillips (Warrington), Craig Winter (Denbigh) and Martyn Bailey (Wrexham) who all boxed for titles during their careers.

Through Astley V.I.P Pro Boxing Damian will now put into practice all the experience he gained from following his dad around the gyms and professional shows when he was growing up, as he looks to expand on the successful Astley V.I.P amateur team.

Training duties at Astley are covered by Damian and fellow coaches Dave Gibson, Mark Frodsham and Dave Morris, but the team also includes boxers trained by Shane Thomas and Clive Doran in North Wales (Shotton Gym), Peter Buckley in Chester (Brymbo Gym), Sean Trodden and Danny Kelly in Birkenhead (Venture Gym) and Jamie Kennedy in Rotherham (Millenium Gym).