Conteh backs Bellew to Shine

British boxing legend John Conteh has backed Tony Bellew to follow in his footsteps - and bring the world light-heavyweight title home to Liverpool. "Bomber" Bellew makes his highly anticipated professional debut at the Nottingham Arena on October 6 following a stellar amateur career in which he won the ABA title. His boyhood hero was Conteh, who won British, Commonwealth, European light-heavyweight titles - and the prestigious WBC World title when he was just 23-years-old. "It's great news that we've got a young guy from Liverpool turning pro, and by the sounds of it he can bang a bit," said 56-year-old Conteh, who will be ringside for Bellew's debut. "It would be fantastic if he could follow in my footsteps, and I'll be watching his career develop with interest. Hopefully one day I can watch him win a world title headlining a show in Liverpool. "It sounds as if he's got his head screwed on because he's signed with the best promoter out there in Frank Warren. "What advice would I give him? Listen to his management team and work hard in the gym, and fight whoever is put in front of him. "It's important for young guys to keep busy when they first turn professional, because the best place to learn is in the ring. "Other than that, I'd say get a good accountant and look after your money, because your career is only a short one." Bellew, 23, who fought out of the world famous Rotunda ABC as an amateur, didn't start boxing until he was 17 having previously represented Great Britain at kick boxing. Of 47 amateur fights, he won 40, 32 inside the distance, and earned the nickname "The Bomber" because of his dynamite punching power. And he is hoping that power will transfer to the professional ranks. "I'm delighted that John has taken time to wish me well, he's always been a big hero of mine," said Bellew, who will be trained by former WBU World Middleweight Champion Anthony Farnell. "To win a world title like he did would be a dream come true."