Questions marks still hang over the return of professional boxing, but "Action" Jackson England has been training the house down in a bid to remain in perfect shape for when opportunity beckons.
The Mandurah-based superstar has made a name for himself as one of Australia's brightest young prospects in recent years, compiling a 12-1 record from his 13 fights and snaring the WBC Asia Super Featherweight Title earlier this year.
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But like almost every boxer worldwide, the young prodigy has spent the past two months not knowing what lies ahead.
It remains uncertain as to when competitive boxing will return, and exactly how that will look.
But England has made sure that when fighters do return to the ring, he will be among those in the best shape possible.
"I've been going a bit stir-crazy, but I can only worry about what I can control and that's my fitness," he said.
"I've always trained like a madman and that hasn't changed."
Like many in the world of fitness, England has had to adapt to new training measures since gyms were shut down in the wake of the pandemic.
Since the closure of his usual Cockburn-based facility, the gun fighter has taken to the outdoors to hone his power and skill, using what nature has to offer in a renewed workout approach alongside coach Jay Gray.
"It's a lot of gritty stuff," England said.
"Punching tyre bags, lifting rocks, pushing tyres, hill sprints, trail runs. I've always loved training in nature so for me, it has been great."
But a refreshed approach to staying sharp is no replacement for the bright lights and atmosphere that come with stepping into the ring.
Prior to the layoff, England had the momentum of a runaway freight train as he was soaring towards new heights on the professional circuit.
He had just collected yet another title, and was starting to explore the possibility of interstate and international fights.
That all came to a grinding halt when the pandemic came to light, but England is adamant he will pick up where he left off as soon as he can.
"I have no idea where boxing is at right now in terms of a comeback, but I know I'm a perfectionist and I'm going to be ready when it comes," he said.
"It's been killing me not being able to get in the ring and put on a show for the crowd, but that's why I'm training so hard.
"I'll be ready when the opportunity comes."
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
