Pyam’s prepared to pack a punch against his pal

The Edinburgh boxers are good friends and sparring mates but know they could do battle in Bowhill, Fife, in the 81kgs category.

Khosrowpour confirmed: “Stevie and I are best mates but that’ll be forgotten in the ring if we clash at Bowhill.

“My last two bouts were cancelled at short notice and I’m afraid I’m going to get rid of that frustration against whoever tomorrow’s draw puts in front of me – even if it’s Stevie.’’

Lochend coach Terry McCormack insists his man Nicol would provide stiff opposition, saying: “Stevie is determined to try win the 81kgs title. However, we are aware that Holyrood have some really good boxers at this weight so we’ll just have to see how the draw goes.’’

Lochend’s Lewis Benson will compete at light-welterweight, a division where the 1314 club’s reigning Scottish champion James Thomson will be the man to beat, while Steve Tiffney carries the club’s hopes at lightweight.

Craigmillar coach Kenny McCartney’s sole entrant at Bowhill will be Jason Easton at light-welterweight while Holyrood’s Martyn Warner, who beat Easton in May, is another title contender.

Meadowbank’s Sean Spence, who was in dazzling form in last week’s British Army v Scotland international match will box at lightweight, while clubmate, light-welterweight Lewis Paulin, returns after a long spell out injured.

Many of the boxers competing tomorrow have been handed a double incentive to shine. Up for grabs is possible selection for a Scottish team which will clash with a joint Manchester/Liverpool boxing select on December 4, while an international ring tussle with a North-East England select on December 17 is also in the pipeline.

With strong contingents from the Capital’s Holyrood club and Fife and East Lothian clubs, too, fans heading to Bowhill tomorrow should be spoiled for choice. Boxing begins at around 1pm.