The Crolla Kid Nobody Saw Coming

By Lewis Barnett 5 July, 2025 7 mins read 31 Views

Honestly? I didn't expect much when I first heard about Will Crolla stepping into the ring.

Another fighter riding his brother's coattails, I thought. Boy, was I wrong. This Manchester lad has been absolutely demolishing opponents since turning pro in 2023, and I'm starting to think he might actually be better than Anthony ever was. Yeah, I said it.

The stats don't lie - eight fights, eight wins, six knockouts. That's a 75% knockout rate that would make Mike Tyson nod approvingly. And unlike most prospects who get fed tomato cans for their first dozen fights, Will's been taking on legitimate competition. Well, as legitimate as you can get when you're flattening guys in the first round.

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Manchester's New Problem Child

William Crolla - though everyone just calls him Will - is 26 years old and fights as a southpaw in the super welterweight division. Born and raised in Manchester, he's got that typical northern grit that makes for entertaining fights.

His pro debut in May 2023 was... messy. Got dropped by Joe Hardy before coming back to win on points. Most fighters would've been shaken by that early knockdown. Will? He used it as fuel.

Since then, it's been a highlight reel. Five straight knockouts, including a brutal first-round stoppage on the Catterall-Prograis undercard last October that had people rewinding their streams. Matchroom Boxing saw enough to offer him a deal in July 2024, and Eddie Hearn doesn't throw contracts around like confetti.

Living in Anthony's Shadow (Or Is He?)

Here's where it gets interesting. Will is Anthony Crolla's younger brother, which should be a blessing and a curse rolled into one messy package.

Anthony wasn't exactly a household name outside of boxing circles, but the man knew how to fight. Former WBA lightweight champion, held the British title, beat some solid names during his career from 2006 to 2019. Respectable record, nothing spectacular.

But here's the weird part - Anthony also started 8-0 before losing his unbeaten streak to some Syrian fighter named Youssef Al Hamidi back in 2008. History repeating itself? We'll see.

The older Crolla bounced back though, eventually capturing multiple titles including that WBA lightweight strap he held from 2015-2016. Not bad for a kid from Manchester who probably got into more street fights than amateur bouts growing up.

The Pressure Cooker

I love Will's attitude about the family name situation. When Matt Elliot asked him about it recently, his response was refreshingly honest:

"Maybe for some people, who think it's a negative, but I relish the pressure of it, I enjoy it, and let's be honest my second name has got me opportunities I probably wouldn't have got without it, so it's been a blessing."

Smart kid. He knows the deal.

But then he said something that made me sit up: "I believe it brings the best out in me, and you do get a lot of people jumping on the bandwagon and saying he's only getting a deal because he's Ant's brother, well the truth is, it may have opened doors but if I was s**t, I wouldn't be getting signed regardless of who my brother is."

That's the kind of confidence you can't fake. Either he's delusional or he's got something special brewing. Based on what I've seen so far, I'm leaning toward the latter.

What's Next for the Kid?

Will's got a ten-fight deal with Matchroom over two years, which means we'll see plenty of him. He's targeting titles by the end of that run, and honestly? It's not that crazy to think he might get there.

The super welterweight division isn't exactly loaded with killers right now. If he keeps improving at this rate and doesn't run into any buzz saws, we could be looking at a legitimate contender by 2026.

Eddie Hearn supposedly told him he would've signed him even without the Crolla name. That's either great PR or genuine belief in the kid's potential. Knowing Eddie, probably both.

Bottom line: Will Crolla isn't just Anthony's little brother anymore. He's becoming his own problem, and that's exactly what boxing needs right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualities should a person look for in a trainer or coach of boxing?

When seeking a boxing coach or trainer, one should look for experience, a successful track record with other boxers, compatibility in coaching style, and a deep understanding of the sport's technical and strategic aspects. A good trainer will emphasize safety, fitness, and personal development. In order to reach your potential in boxing, it's important to have a trainer who motivates and communicates effectively.

How do boxers control their weight and maintain their weight classes?

Boxers control their weight through a strict diet and a precise training regime. Dieticians work with boxers to create a diet that allows them to achieve their weight-class target without sacrificing energy and nutrition. Exercise and weight monitoring are important, particularly as the fight nears. Weight management is an important strategic process. If done incorrectly it can lead to poor performance or health issues.

Are there age restrictions for learning to box professionally?

Age restrictions do exist in professional boxing. Most boxing commissions insist that boxers must be 18 or older in order to fight professionally. There is no upper limit to the age that a person can safely compete, but there are factors such as physical abilities and health. It is important that older athletes are thoroughly evaluated for risk and fitness before they take up a professional sport.

What is required for a professional boxer to begin?

If you are just starting out in professional boxing, essential equipment for beginners includes boxing gloves and hand wraps. Also, a mouthguard is necessary, as well as headgear, proper footwear, and a mouthguard. The use of a heavy, speed, or double-end bag is essential for technical workouts. It is essential to use equipment that provides protection and durability. Otherwise, you may increase your risk of injury.

What role does a manager or promoter play in the career of a professional boxer?

Promoters and managers play a crucial role in the professional career of a boxer. Managers are responsible for guiding the boxer's career path, negotiating contracts, and handling the business affairs of the boxer. They can also assist in choosing the right fights for the boxer and take care of his or her interests. The promoters focus more on organizing events, marketing fights and attracting sponsors and audience attention. This increases a boxer’s public profile and earnings potential.

How do you progress from amateur to Professional Boxing?

Transitioning from amateur to professional boxing entails a significant step up in competition, training intensity, and mental preparation. An amateur boxer is required to establish a record of success, usually by honing their skills at local and national contests. It is crucial to acquire a boxing license, and align yourself with experienced trainers and managers who can guide your career decisions and secure you professional bouts.

What is the basic training program of a Boxer?

A boxer's training routine typically consists of several key components. They include technical skill building, tactical drills and strength and conditioning. Sparring and mental training are also included. Tactical drills allow for the development of fight strategies while focusing on technique. Sparring and conditioning exercises provide practical combat experience. Mental training builds confidence, focus and resilience.

Statistics

Nutrition experts emphasize that over 70% of a boxer's diet should focus on carbohydrates and proteins for energy and recovery.
Professional boxers typically train 4 to 6 hours per day, 5 to 6 days a week, depending on their fight schedule.
Approximately 80% of professional boxers start their career in the amateur ranks before transitioning to the professional level.
Research shows that a boxer's reaction time is typically under 0.25 seconds, honed through repetitive drills and sparring.
Cardiovascular fitness is critical, with a focus on high intensity interval training, comprising up to 40% of a boxer's conditioning program.
A study showed that most professional boxers have spent more than 4 years in training before their first professional bout.
An analysis of boxing injuries suggests that 90% involve the head, neck, and face, emphasizing the importance of protective gear.

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How To

How to Choose the Right Boxing Gym for Professional Training

Choosing the right boxing gym is pivotal to a successful transition from amateur to professional. The ideal boxing gym should have experienced coaches familiar with the professional world of boxing. It should provide a range training equipment as well as a sparring area. It is important to assess the culture and atmosphere of the gym. It should be encouraging and focused towards improvement. Check out the gym's history of producing professional boxers, and see if they offer customized training plans that are tailored to your current skill level and goals.