Brad Pauls is determined to recapture his proudest boxing achievement: holding the coveted Lonsdale Belt as the British middleweight champion.
Known as `The Newquay Bomb`, Pauls initially won the title last July. He delivered a stunning performance to dethrone the popular Nathan Heaney, dropping him before securing a dramatic 12th-round finish. This victory followed a thrilling draw between the two fighters earlier in 2024, a bout widely regarded as one of the year`s most exciting encounters in the UK.
Following his successful rematch with Heaney, Pauls (19-2-1, 11 KOs) stepped into another significant domestic challenge against Denzel Bentley in December. However, despite a valiant effort, the 32-year-old ultimately lost the fight via unanimous decision, requiring him to regroup and plan his next steps.
Despite this recent setback, Pauls remained hopeful of featuring on prominent boxing cards, especially after headlining back-to-back Queensberry Promotions events. Yet, after over six months away from competition, he is scheduled to return to action on May 31 on a smaller, `grassroots` level show.
“I`m just happy to be active again,” Pauls told Boxing News. “There`s nothing worse than sitting out the ring – it absolutely kills me.” He expressed frustration at not securing a spot back on a Queensberry card, likening the feeling to persistent romantic rejection: “It’s a bit like getting rejected by a bird. She`s pied you off, and all you really want is to go on another date with her. She keeps saying no – sometimes doesn’t respond to your calls – and you keep trying, keep trying. But eventually, you have to look elsewhere.”
Pauls is no stranger to the less glamorous aspects of the sport that often precede major opportunities. His initial journey to the British title was a long and challenging one, filled with moments that made him question whether his sacrifices were worthwhile.
However, the moment he finally held the Lonsdale Belt provided all the validation he needed. “It was the best night of my life,” he recalled. “Where I didn’t have anything for so long, most people would’ve given up… for it to actually work out, it just justified everything.” He reflected on his inherent refusal to quit, stating he was built to pursue his goals in boxing “by hook or by crook” and gave the sport “everything” he had, foregoing an easier life.
With that memorable night etched in his mind, Pauls is eager for another equally exciting opportunity soon. His focus is currently on the upcoming fight between Kieron Conway and Gerome Warburton for his former title this Saturday.
“It wasn’t long ago that I had the title, and as soon as I get a win, lobbying me as a mandatory [challenger for the winner of Conway vs Warburton] isn`t out of the question,” Pauls explained. He plans to watch the fight closely, hoping to position himself for a shot at the new champion, either as a mandatory challenger or a voluntary opponent. He specifically mentioned Kieron Conway, stating, “I like Kieron – he’s a nice bloke. And after sparring him, I just think it`d be a great fight. I think [our styles] would gel well, and I fancy my chances against him. That’s one for the future, hopefully.”
