Pigford power puts opponents in short supply (From Daily Echo)

Pigford power puts opponents in short supply

8:34am Tuesday 5th March 2013 in Sport By Adam Leitch, Chief Sports Writer

Joe Pigford admits he might struggle to find opponents after he made it two stoppage wins out of two with another impressive display at Southampton Guildhall.

The well-supported 19-year-old welterweight looks a terrific prospect, still with improvement to make defensively but full of confidence and power punching.

After ending his debut bout in just 37 seconds, Pigford took until 1 minute 29 seconds into the third round to end Filip Bujadek’s chances as a barrage of unanswered punches led to the referee stopping the contest.

Pigford needs more four-round action to gain experience this early in his career, but finding economically viable opponents willing to face him after this initial impact will be easier said than done.

“It might be a bit harder to get opponents but whatever happens Wayne (Batten, trainer) will keep me progressing next time,” said the Southampton boxer.

“As long as I can keep stopping them, it’s not a problem who I face.

“It was good to get a couple of rounds in – better than last time.

“Everyone has been asking me whether I wanted to do the same this time and the truth is I probably did, but I am glad to have got rounds in.

“I appreciate for me this is a bit more experience and this early on I do need that.

“I felt really in control the whole time.

“Sometimes I can be trying a bit hard but I wasn’t worried about what was coming back and when I relaxed I found I was catching him.”

Pigford is also buoyed by a significant and boisterous support.

They certainly made themselves heard at the Guildhall and a number of them were even sporting pig masks in honour of their friend.

“I didn’t know they were going to wear them,” admitted Pigford.

“The same as on my debut, they went out early in the day and got drunk at a mate’s house.

“For me, though, it’s one of the best things having a good support.

“It’s good motivation and pushes you on to box well.

“I have to try not to impress too much, though, and just box.”