Campbell: Sky pundits don't like me, but I will keep fighting

Jay McFarlane is struck by Islander Nick Campbell during their Scottish heavyweight bout at the OVO Hydro, Glasgow Picture STEVE WELSH/PA WIRE

NICK CAMPBELL has vowed to earn the respect of boxing experts in the wake of criticism on Sky Sports.

The Islander, who switched from rugby to boxing in 2017, became the first man to claim the Scottish heavyweight belt since 1951 on Saturday, thanks to a seventh-round victory over Jay MacFarlane in Glasgow.

However, pundits analysing the fight tagged Campbell as ‘basic and novicey’, before former WBO world cruiserweight champion Johnny Nelson questioned whether the pair were skilled enough to be battling for a national crown.

Campbell, who was handed a three-fight deal with Sky Sports in 2021, extended his professional record to 5-0-0, having won 11 of his 15 bouts as an amateur.

‘People are quick to criticise, but in reality that’s my 20th fight overall, as an amateur or a pro. I’m still learning on the job,’ he explained.

‘I am very fortunate to have been given a massive spotlight, but with that comes the pressure of everyone judging you.

‘I know I have a lot to learn and that I’m on an upward curve in terms of development. With every training session and fight I’m learning and I will just keep the ball rolling.’

He added: ‘I think given where I’ve come from, the fights I’ve had and the experience I’ve got, I’m doing all right.

‘The Sky Sports pundits don’t seem to like me much but I will just keep fighting and keep winning and hopefully that will change their minds.’

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