Will Young discusses final fight: “I’m extremely proud to be an Australian champion”

 
AS his nickname suggests, there aren’t many fighters tougher than ‘Iron’ Will Young.

 
The two-division Australian titleholder and proud Toowoomba resident will make the final appearance of his professional career tomorrow night, when he defends his national strap against Ben Warburton.

 
With his last fight being a matter of hours away, Young (6-4, 3 KOs) admits it will be hard to walk away.

 
“The decision to retire was not an easy one,” said Young to Aus-Boxing. “But I feel it’s the right one for me.”

 
“I run my own electrical business and I have two young children. I’m very happy with what I’ve achieved in the sport – I’m looking forward to spending more time with the family – and building the family business,”

 
The 32-year-old will make the first defence of his Australian featherweight title against an upset-minded Ben Warburton (11-4-1, 6 KOs), who has confidently voiced his plans to spoil Young’s farewell fight at home.

 
Despite the high-risk nature of the ten-round title defence, Young appears to be unfazed by Warburton’s claims.

 
“I don’t let trash talk get to me,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter what my opponent says about me,”

 
“Once we are both in the ring – it’s forgotten about – and all I think about is finding a way to win. I train hard for every fight and for this one it hasn’t been any different.”

 
With a passionate home crowd at Rumours International in Toowoomba behind him, Young concedes he has plenty to be thankful for. Young highlighted his relationship with long-time trainer and mentor Brendon Smith.

 
“I’m very lucky to have Brendon in my corner,” added Young. “He always has me in great physical condition,”

 
“With Brendon’s backing, I’m always mentally ready to take on these big fights. To finish my career with a win over a solid opponent and in front of all my supporters would be the perfect way to cap off my career,”

 
Competing at a lower weight often means more opportunities, especially in the Asia Pacific region. To his credit, Young has turned down regional title fights in favour of competing for the right to be called Australia’s best.

 
Young cherishes his Australian featherweight and super featherweight titles; a feat he holds with great pride.

 
In an era where fighters are quick to vacate the national title, Young is proud to be making a title defence.

 
“I’m very proud to have held two Australian titles and I’d love to make it three. I’ve had opportunities in the past to fight for a regional title – but I’ve chosen to fight for the national belt – as it means so much to me,”

 
“I’m extremely proud to be an Australian champion and defend my belt against a worthy challenger in Ben Warburton,” he concluded. “That’s what makes it a prestigious belt, a champion that’s willing to defend it.”

 
 
Photo: TGW & Smithy’s Promotions