By Sean Davies

James Todd suffered his first defeat as a professional

Swansea light-welterweight James Todd lost a four-round decision to Dean Peters Jr on his debut in the USA.

Previously unbeaten Todd, competing on the undercard of Eric 'Butterbean' Esch's final fight, felt that he was unlucky to drop the decision.

"I thought I won... but they gave it to the hometown kid," said Todd, 21.

Peters, who had a good amateur career, was making his pro debut, competing in his home state of Wisconsin at the US Cellular Arena in Milwaukee.

Todd, younger brother of Torquay United footballer Chris, has made the unlikely switch to California, signing a two-year deal to train under John Tandy.

He has joined Merthyr's Kerry Hope at the Talon Boxing camp in the San Bernardino mountain range just outside Los Angeles.

"Back home I was taking the sport too easy and living the wrong lifestyle," said Todd, who was formerly trained by Enzo Calzaghe at the his famous gym in Newbridge.

606: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Todd's USA venture

"Boxing was going down the wrong road for me," added Todd, who drew his first fight in December 2008 before recording two points victories.

"I was not happy at the Calazghe camp although Enzo Calazghe is a great trainer and he trained one of the world's best in his son Joe."

Todd blamed his lifestyle and distractions for the problems, and he went on to train with his friend Gary Lockett and to consider working under Enzo Maccarinelli.

"Enzo Maccarinelli was thinking about becoming a boxing coach and taking me under his wing, but I think Enzo knows deep down he has got a lot to offer to boxing by becoming a world or British champion.

"Over the time I was still keeping in touch with my good friend Kerry Hope... he showed John Tandy one of my fights and I had a phone call asking me if I would like a two-week trial.

"On the night I arrived Kerry made his American debut on a Golden Boy [Promotions] show with a successful win.

"I started a busy training schedule, going down to LA on Mondays and Fridays, sparring against world-class kids like Daniel Dawson.

"I really think I can make a future in America. I have got my focus and motivation back, I'm training harder than ever, sharpening my technique and increasing my power."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version