Harvey Lambert targets convincing ring return as Hull boxer makes major change in search of glory

Hull boxer Harvey Lambert makes a return to the ring this month as he targets a big year

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James SmailesHead of sport Yorkshire/North East

09:50, 5 APR 2024

Harvey Lambert can’t wait for something of a homecoming as the Hull fighter sets his sights on an important year after a frustrating start to his professional boxing career. The 26-year-old with an unbeaten three-fight record will fight on Yorkshire soil for the first time as a professional and first time in seven years when taking on Bulgarian Nikola Stoyanov at the Magna Centre in Rotherham on Saturday, April 20.

Former Great Britain podium squad member, Lambert, gave up his initial dream of competing in the Paris Olympics when opting to turn pro in 2022 and signing a promotional deal that saw him feature on Sky Sports.

Having appeared on three major shows Lambert picked up three victories, but fights were not coming at the regularity he wished and now the Hull welterweight has switched to GBM Sports and makes his bow for his new promoter in Rotherham on a card featuring the likes of Shakiel Thompson, Hughie Fury and Kieran Molloy.

Lambert is hoping his April return marks the start of a much-needed busy year, one which ends with a title shot and a leap into national contention. “It’s been a slow start to my career as I got messed about and also took some time off when my girls were born,” explains Lambert, who was blessed with twin girls last year.

“I’ve four or five fights lined up this year and that’s what I need, I need to be active. Fighting on big shows is great, but it’s experience I need right now and that comes from being in the ring. You can’t do that on two fights a year, so this switch made sense and I’m really looking forward to getting going again and I’m excited to be fighting in Yorkshire again.”

There’s not just been a change in promoter for Lambert, but a new trainer is on board in Stevie Smith, who guided Tommy Coyle through the first half of his career. “It’s perfect to be back home in Hull training and working with Stevie,” adds Lambert.

“I was 19 the last time I had a fight in Yorkshire, so that’s exciting and hopefully we can get a show together in Hull soon, that would be massive.”

A change in promoter isn't all that's new for Lambert in his return, with the boxer to take on a six round contest for the first time when taking on his experienced Bulgarian opponent. It's a big night for Lambert, and he knows it, adding; "I need to push on now at 26. I need to get the rounds in and I should win this fight, convincingly."

Boosted by the recent bantamweight Central Area title victory for Logan Richardson, and with the likes of Lewis Sylvester having just fought for the British and Commonwealth lightweight title, Lambert is hoping to be a leading light in a new generation of Hull boxing.

The heady days of Coyle, Luke Campbell and Samir Mouneimne are fading into the past and a new generation are emerging hoping to build on the undeniable platform laid by those recently retired.

“It’s great to see Logan pick up that belt and it’s a good win for him and for Hull boxing,” says Lambert. “It hopefully gives the boxing scene in Hull a lift and hopefully there’s exciting days ahead and I’m at the front of that.”