Boxing: Watson aims to become a pro boxer

The current world Tae Kwon Do lightweight champion will be put through his paces by the Lochend club as he attempts to rediscover the form which saw him crowned Eastern Novices and District champion with Leith Victoria six years ago.

Watson, who was recently named ‘Fighter of 2011’ by British Martial Arts bosses, revealed: “I’ve decided to go back to boxing with Lochend at lightweight and my aim will be to pick up where I left off and win a title in the 2012 Scottish Senior championships early in the new year. I’ve had discussions with [Lochend coach] Terry McCormack and we’ve agreed my long-term aim will be to box as a pro. With my World, European and British Tae Kwon Do titles I’ve had my share of glory but now I want to convert that talent into hard cash.”

McCormack said: “James was an incredibly promising amateur boxer with Leith Victoria and, with regular sparring with guys like Josh Taylor, Lewis Benson and Steve Tiffany here at Lochend, I am confident we can successfully relaunch his boxing career.”