Cyrus Pattinson heads into a must-win home show in Newcastle this weekend as he looks to build on a career revival under trainer Billy Nelson. A one-time leading GB amateur who was one victory shy of qualifying for the 2016 Olympics, Pattinson turned professional in 2021 and opened his pro career with six straight wins, becoming a popular attraction on the North East fight scene.
He recorded a dramatic victory over former British champion Chris Jenkins but was halted in a bruising 2023 contest with Conah Walker. The defeat precipitated a low period: he was left without a promoter, manager or trainer and suffered a serious eye injury that nearly ended his career. Pattinson says the stretch left him at rock bottom, battling depression and taking each day as it came, often using long walks to clear his head and simply get through.
A route back appeared at Billy Nelson’s Glasgow gym, where Pattinson initially worked as a sparring partner for Jack Rafferty and world champion Lewis Crocker. Nelson took him under his wing, and after rebuilding with three straight wins Pattinson returns to the Vertu Motors Arena to face Tunde Segun Adeyemi.
Pattinson warns that Adeyemi is a dangerous opponent coming to win. He admits he fights with his heart on his sleeve and that his style provides entertainment, but insists that winning is the priority. He says he enjoys engaging fights and wants to give fans value while also moving his career forward.
Reflecting on the loss to Walker, Pattinson has a different perspective now, noting Walker’s continued ascent — including a knockout of Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack — and arguing that he belongs among the division’s better names. He believes he is capable of matching or beating those fighters and that it is only a matter of time before he is back in contention.
Beyond this weekend, Pattinson has clear targets: the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles. Nelson is optimistic about the trajectory, praising his improvement and professionalism and suggesting domestic or even European challenges could follow if the progress continues.
Pattinson says his immediate focus is the upcoming fight but that his long-term aims remain winning domestic honours. He stresses he is an asset for promoters because he sells tickets and always provides entertaining fights, while staying true to himself.
If you are affected by depression or suicidal thoughts or want to talk, contact the Samaritans on the free helpline 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org for support.