Boxing: Paul Economides out to make it two titles like Chester Boxers stablemate Chris Goodwin

Dec 1 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle

PAUL Economides will attempt to follow in the footsteps of Chester Boxers stablemate Chris Goodwin and win his second title of the year on Saturday.

The 25-year-old takes on 33-year-old Yorkshireman Gavin Reid for the British Masters featherweight belt at York Hall in Bethnal Green – the legendary London venue where Goodwin claimed the International Masters welterweight crown earlier this month.

British Masters super-bantamweight champion Economides has had to change his preparations for the fight after his original opponent, Isaac Nettey, pulled out because of visa problems.

But Steve Goodwin, who trains Economides and his son Chris at the Chester Boxers gym in Hoole, is confident the Connah’s Quay fighter can become a two-weight champion.

He said: “Gavin will be a tough opponent for Paul but he has trained well and he should go and do it.”

Economides added: “He’s a tough cookie but he’s been beaten by the best lads in Britain and it’s my turn to prove I’m up there with them.”

Goodwin Jr is now back in training in readiness for a busy new year.

The 23-year-old from Great Barrow took a well-earned break after beating Wesley Hertoghe at York Hall to secure his second International Masters strap.

Already the holder of the lightweight belt, Goodwin added the welterweight title to his collection with a 100-91 points victory in his first fight in the capital.

The stylist was fast out of the blocks, jabbing away at a frustrated Hertoghe and restricting his opponent to body shot counters.

Hertoghe had no answer to Goodwin’s speed and movement and although the Belgian battled back in the seventh round, it was no surprise when referee Jeff Hines delivered his final verdict.

Goodwin Sr said: “Chris boxed very well and his footwork and movement were excellent.”