Billy ‘Hitman’ Corito scored a first round win against England’s Mark McGarry on Friday night in front of 1,200 enthusiastic fans at the Orpheum Theatre in Gzira.
Corito was all over his opponent from the word go and did not take long to register his sixth victory by KO in his career.
The 33-year-old ‘Hitman’ is now looking forward to move to England on 1 March where he will be doing his best to get his professional licence. In Malta he is being prepared by the former two-time world champion Scott Dixon, while in Glasgow, he will be taken care of by 82-year old Toby Dixon (Scott’s grandfather) who is a big name in Scottish and UK boxing circles.
Corito said after his win that he had prepared well for Friday’s fight. “In my build-up, I lost 22 kilos. I had been training four months and that included running four miles twice a day and a further three hours at the gym. It is tough and very difficult but I am determined to go all the way to turn professional and get the chance to win a world championship title,” he said.
Corito, also known among local fans as the Maltese Mike Tyson, because of winning most of his fights in the first or second rounds, said it was always his intention to win when he is on the ring. “Whether it is the first or 10th round, it does not matter to me. Tyson used to do it in just a few seconds. So why cannot Corito do it as well?” he remarked.
Dixon was very pleased with his protégé’s performance. He said: “He showed maturity and composure and an enormous will to win. Now he will have a 10-week preparation period before undergoing the tests which should lead him to turn professional.
Dixon also said that if Corito manages to turn pro, his next ventures will be in the UK.
He also spoke of the great interest in the sport. “I can say there is a lot of talent. The vision I had when I arrived here five years ago is gaining momentum. There is more public awareness and more kids are getting involved. It is important they do something productive in their life and not just roam on the streets. We are committed to improve their quality of life through boxing,” he added.
In another excellent fight on Friday, Dione Galea beat English boxer Nathan Powell on points after four rounds
Daniel Attard beat Tylor Olivia with a Technical Knock Out in the third round, Justin Grech won against Sean Meli with a Technical Knock Out in the second round .
In another exhibition bout, Scott Dixon fought against Steve Martin, considered as one of the best upcoming boxers on the island.