A TEENAGE boxer s dream is to follow in the footsteps of his hero by winning a world title. Fourteen-year-old Oliver Moody of Wyddial is considered as one of the most promising boxers in the country, and although dreams of representing England at the 201

A TEENAGE boxer's dream is to follow in the footsteps of his hero by winning a world title.

Fourteen-year-old Oliver Moody of Wyddial is considered as one of the most promising boxers in the country, and although dreams of representing England at the 2012 Olympics seem far away, those around him believe it could happen.

Oliver, who boxes for Cheshunt Boxing Club and attends Fremen College in Buntingford, said that it would be an honour to represent his country.

He said: "I would love to box for England and I've already come quite close.

"My aim is to get to the 2012 Olympics, that would be great."

Oliver wants to follow in the footsteps of his hero, world champion Joe Calzaghe.

"He's been my favourite boxer for ages. I've even met him, which was amazing.

"I would definitely like to be a champion like him."

Oliver's coach Robert Taylor certainly agrees and says his protégé is capable of achieving whatever he wants.

Taylor said: "Oliver is still only young but he has great potential.

"He follows instructions well, has great hand speed and footwork and he works very hard.

"In the last 12 months he has developed and our next aim is to win a major title.

"Then he can start knocking on the door of the England selectors - I believe that is his next progression."

Oliver, who boxes in the 54kg category, has already chalked up an impressive record of 17 wins out of 25 bouts.

One of his few defeats came at the weekend, when he went out of the Golden Glove Competition quarter finals in Newcastle - losing on points.

Oliver said: "It was disappointing because I think I should have won.

"I would have liked to have got to the final.

"But I will get back in the ring, work hard, and hopefully win my next competition."

Next up for Oliver is a bout against the current schoolboy champion, as he looks to continue his impressive form and win the Junior ABA title and the NABCs - steps that will go a long way to fulfilling his bright ambitions.

Oliver's dad Vince said: "He's probably a good few years away from representing England, but it's a very realistic goal.

"Oliver has already beaten national champions, so he's got the pedigree.

"It's an exciting time for him and the future looks very bright.

"Without doubt, he is one of the top five 14-year-olds in the country.

"We are all very proud of him.