The highs and lows of a boxing 'WAG'

The collective support of a boxer often feels every jab and every hook at ringside or watching on television but what must sharing your life with a world champion be like?

Super Banthamweight titleholder Scott Quigg defends his title against Tshifhiwa Munyai on April 19th at the Manchester Arena. For his partner Beverley Bugeja it’s not all bright lights and glamour sharing the highs, the lows, the sacrifices and gruelling training regime is all part and parcel of her spouse’s profession.

‘It can be quite difficult, he’s got such a strict schedule, we don’t really get chance to spend much time together but then obviously when you see him on fight night and he does so well, it makes you proud and its all worth it.’

Bugeja, an office manager at a clothing brand, met the Bury born boxer while working as a receptionist at a hotel where the 25 year old was a gym member.

Four and a half years later and they’re engaged, although the chimes of wedding bells have taken a backseat to those of the boxing variety. Something his 24-year-old partner doesn’t mind.

‘We want to get a house and stuff first so its not too bad really, so just keep his career going, he’s not too bothered about the plans, it’ll be me doing all the planning anyway, just have to make sure he’s available on the day.’

Juggling a tough training schedule and controlled diet is a full time pursuit that takes the same level of discipline.

‘I might see him on a Sunday on his day off, he has to watch what he eats, he cant go out and grab a bacon buttie for his dinner, you have set meals, so he’s got to be home at a certain time so he can eat.’

After all the hours of sacrifice and hard training, it comes down to what happens in the ring, and seeing their other half taking a few punches comes with the territory.

‘I don’t really like it, luckily he’s really good, I’ve never had to watch him get hurt or anything badly, always 100% confident that he’ll win but its really nerve-wracking.’

Quigg was scheduled to fight Venezuelan Nehomar Cermeno on Saturday night, however visa issues scuppered his chances of a Super Banthamweight title bout.

In steps the South African nicknamed the ‘Atomic Spider’, who has experienced success on these shores with a record of 5-1.

Despite the change in opponent at short notice, Bugeja didn’t mince words and is convinced her man can retain his Super Banthamweight crown.

‘I just know he’ll knock him out.’

Should Quigg overcome his mandatory contest with Munyai, a super fight against Carl Frampton or Mexican Leo Santa Cruz could be in the offing.