For most builders a day’s graft on site would be more than enough exertion, but one south Wales tradesman spent his formative years combining just that with a gruelling physical training regime. That hard work has, however, been richly rewarded with considerable success in the ring, and today Kieran Gething is forging a successful career as a professional boxer, whilst still maintaining his Abergavenny-based general building company, G Gething & Sons. “There have been four or five generations of fighters in my family,” explains the Welsh Area super-lightweight champion, “a timescale which stretches back as far as there’s been Queensburyrules.
At the same time, I’ve also taken on my father’s building firm, so they were both natural paths for me to follow. I actually started at the age of twelve and would subsequently clock up 65 fights as an amateur. I’ve boxed in tournaments right across Europe, against some of the most formidable opponents on the circuit, and captained the Wales national team for two years, a period when we beat our English counterparts twice, which were very proud moments for me. In fact, the first time I captained my country was the day after my father’s funeral, which was a hugely emotional experience and one that will live with me forever.”
In the Welsh system even the most accomplished amateurs can struggle for funding, which meant that Kieran had to balance his love of boxing with a full-time job. A punishing schedule would begin with a 5am rise, followed by a day on the tools, before transferring straight to the gym. “Most nights I wasn’t getting home until eight in the evening, and there are undoubtedly sacrifices that have to be made, but boxing does have a lot to teach you about discipline and hard work, as well as the sheer thrill of climbing into the ring.”
Having won titles at junior, youth and senior levels, including the Welsh national championship, the 26-year-old pugilist would turn pro. Since then he’s collected the corresponding title as a professional, as well as a Welsh Fighter of the Year award, with his most recent bout televised live on Sky Sports. Continues Kieran: “When the sport is your main occupation, because you’re not fighting as often, it’s easier to strike a better balance, but there’s still not huge amounts of money. There are all kinds of things that people probably don’t realise you have to pay for, from medical and licensing fees to sparring partners and travelling – all of which adds up.
“Through contacts in the construction industry I’ve been able to pursue sponsorship opportunities, and recently signed a deal with Ebbw Vale-based firm, Philip Jones Timber Products, who will be supporting my career financially. That does take the pressure off in the build up to a bout because you can focus on your training camp and the fight.”
Director of the south Wales timber supplier, Danielle Jones, is full of praise for Kieran’s work ethic: “We are proud to be supporting Kieran in his boxing career. We know how hard he trains whilst successfully running his business and being a family man. Seeing how committed he is made us, as a family business, proud to be part of his team. We wish him the best of luck for upcoming events and are behind him 100 per cent!”
Whilst Kieran’s professional career has gone from strength to strength, his construction company continues to punch about its weight. “We have three full time employees, as well as a group of trusted sub-contractors, and we’re thriving as a business. As a director I’m able to oversee the projects we have in progress, whilst it will also give me something to fall back on when I finish.”
Whilst elite sport has been severely disrupted by the coronavirus, Kieran is currently ramping up his training ready for his next fight, where he’ll meet Irish national champion, Gary Cully at the LSLive in Wakefield. It is a fight that will be broadcast live in the US on ESPN+ and worldwide on IFL TV.
IF YOU OR YOUR BUSINESS ARE INTERESTED IN SPONSORING KIERAN, THEN CONTACT GETHING123@HOTMAIL.CO.UK
