APRIL 2026

Mason Smith - 20

BVB: How long have you been boxing?

Mason: I was first introduced to boxing when I was 8 years old, and started properly boxing when I was 12. I’ve had 14 fights, winning 8 of them and recently picking up the Western Counties Belt in March after stopping my opponent in the first round.

BVB: What first brought you to boxing?

Mason: I was brought to boxing initially when my mum posted a video of me when I was 8 doing sit ups, press ups, weights etc. It was actually Sean (head coach) who got in touch with her and asked her to bring me down to the gym!

BVB: What standards do you hold to yourself now?

Mason: Always give 100% to my training sessions and stay consistent as possible with one target in mind. Also keeping active by taking every fight that’s offered to me.

BVB: How has boxing changed you as a person?

Mason: It’s taught me that hard work and discipline gets you results and the more you put in the more you get out. It’s also taught me how to stay mentally resilient when things get tough and to never quit.

BVB: What does boxing give you that nothing else does?

Mason: Boxing gives me the pride and accomplishment that nothing else could. After months of training, when I get my hand raised in that ring, boxing gives me a feeling nothing else ever could.

BVB: Who's your favourite boxer and why?

Mason: Mike Tyson is my favourite boxer because of his incredible power and aggressive fighting style. What I admire most is his mentality where he entered the ring with total confidence and fearlessness. His mindset and determination made him one of the most intimidating fighters in boxing history.

BVB: What is boxing to you?

Mason: Boxing is my life. To me, it’s more than just a sport, teaching me discipline, mentality, and determination. Boxing pushes me to always stay focused, work hard and better myself as a person and as a fighter.

Kieran Laidler - 26

BVB: How long have you been boxing?

Kieran: I first walked into a boxing gym at the age of 10. Been in and out the gym for years. Fought twice,won my first fight and lost my last fight.⁠

BVB: What first brought you to boxing?

Kieran: Always had an interest in boxing, my old man had me watching all the old fighters from a young age and then took me to the local boxing club.⁠

BVB: What standards do you hold to yourself now?

Kieran: Staying disciplined and consistent inside and outside the gym.⁠

BVB: How has boxing changed you as a person?

Kieran: This past year of training to my full potential has made me physically and mentally stronger. I love the routine as it keeps my head right.⁠

BVB: Who's your favourite boxer and why?

Kieran: Rocky Marciano is my favourite boxer because of his pure grit and determination inside the ring. I admire his relentless style, punching power.⁠