Ben McGivern dedicated his professional debut win to his gran Mary and former trainer Rab Bannan.
The Coatbridge boxer’s gran sadly passed away eight weeks ago while McGivern’s pro debut almost marked the first anniversary of legendary coach Bannan’s passing.
The Barn ABC icon showed fellow Coatbridge star and Scotland’s only three-weight world champion, Ricky Burns, the ropes.
McGivern defeated journeyman Lewis Van Poetsch on points at Hamilton Accies stadium and he admits it was a special moment after a 15-year wait.
“I was absolutely over the moon,” said McGivern. “I couldn’t have asked for a better debut, especially on such a big stage.
“I sold 150 tickets and it was unbelievable to hear them all screaming and going nuts for me - it was mad.
“It was amazing to get that reception. It was the anniversary of Rab’s death on Friday and I also lost my gran two months ago so I was fighting for them.
“Lewis’ record isn’t great but he’s no mug. He’s fought some top quality fighters and it was the perfect opponent to start my career.
“He’s experienced and he kept me working throughout. It was four tough rounds and he caught me with a few good shots. I nearly put him away in the third round but he’s very durable and I didn’t want to step on when I was comfortable.
“I was moved up the schedule from first to fifth, that was brilliant. I went from undercard to the main card which made it even better.”
McGivern wants to build on the momentum of his first fight and he’s asked his promoter, Sam Kynoch, to get him back in the ring as soon as possible.
He added: “I’ve told Sam that I want to get back out in the next few weeks. We will have a chat next week and see what’s possible.
“I want to keep really busy for the next 12 months. I don’t care who I face, I want to be tested and I need experience because it’s been such a long time without boxing.
“If it means that I have to travel then I’m willing to do that.”
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