Glasgow’s Craig Docherty (24,7,1) may have lost a recent title fight in his home city but the vastly experienced puncher has wasted no time in moving his career on.
A 9th round stoppage defeat at the hands of Gary McMillan up at welterweight all but ended the 31 year olds involvement in the game but despite admitting his fighting days are over, it has been a career few British boxing fans will forget in a hurry.
With a record of 12 wins and 1 loss from 13 outings, the 5ft 7inch orthodox ventured to Manchester to face big punching British champ Michael Gomez. Despite boasting an impressive record going into the challenge, in hindsight it perhaps came a little too early in the up and coming prospects career as he opted to fight fire with fire, dragging Gomez into the centre of the ring and playing the Englishman at his own game, resulting in a 2nd round TKO defeat.
Hot Property was never one to throw the towel in at the first sign of trouble however and got back on track to record a 6 fight winning streak which seen him fight for, and win the Commonwealth strap thanks to an 8th round stoppage over the well fancied Dean Pithie at the York Hall. The belt sat tightly fastened around Docherty’s waist for 2 years, with successful defences against Abdul Malik Jabir and Joshua Allotey, before another step up in class saw him lose a hotly contested majority decision to experienced Russian Boris Sinitsin in 2004.
By the spring of 2005 two of Scotland’s most gifted fighters were on a collision course and Docherty put his Commonwealth on the line against Alex Arthur, with the vacant Lonsdale strap also up for grabs. It was billed as the biggest all Scottish clash since Jim Watt met Ken Buchanan and like that 1973 meeting, it was the East Coast who secured the bragging rights with Arthur snatching a 9th round TKO victory. Many thought defeat to Arthur had ended the Glaswegians involvement in championship boxing but in June of this year he re-emerged up at light-middleweight to earn a British Masters title courtesy of a trademark left hook to the body, finishing Paddy Pollock in a round.
During his 12 year career the 32 fight veteran disputed British, Commonwealth, European, WBU, Celtic and Masters Titles and believes it is now time to pass on his wealth of knowledge.
“I very much doubt I will fight again, Docherty reflected this week. I’m really going to miss the game but plan to stay involved and help others through the benefit of my experience”.
“I’m always in the gym and staying sharp so it seemed like natural progression to move into training and help out others who want to get fit, learn to box, or achieve their own personal goals”.
“I have a dedicated group of keep fitters and am looking to expand in the run up to Christmas. Fighters looking to hone their skills and gain a bit of experience, fitness fanatics who want to learn how to box and build up their stamina, or just those aiming to get into shape for a New Year, I believe I have something to offer everyone if they are serious about reaching their goals”.
So for those looking to avoid piling on those dreaded pounds over the festive period, a training session with the champ could be just what the Doc ordered.
Those interested in participating in one on one training sessions with former Commonwealth champion Craig Docherty at his Glasgow base can contact him directly at contender201012@yahoo.com for further details.
