DORSET’S Iain Weaver is hoping to hit the jackpot after impressing a potential promoter during a fact-finding mission in Las Vegas.

Weaver spent three weeks in America training at Floyd Mayweather’s gym before watching his WBO welterweight title bout with Manny Pacquiao.

The Ferndown-based southpaw was among the crowd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena to see Mayweather emerge victorious from the most lucrative fight in history.

And he gained valuable experience sparring at Mayweather’s gym where he pitted himself against some Mexican boxers.

Former GB amateur star Weaver, who has had six fights since turning pro, is hoping his trip stateside could prove fruitful.

He told the Daily Echo: “I went there to get a few ideas about what I can do with my career. I spoke with a few promoters and sponsors to see about getting a deal. It was all very positive.

“I gained some great experience and sparred with some Mexican boxers. I beat them quite comfortably and, hopefully, something will come of it because there was someone there who was interested in sponsoring me.

“I flew to America about a week before the big fight and the buzz all around Las Vegas was amazing. It was such a great experience just being there.

“It has spurred me on and really whetted my appetite. I want to box in those big shows and be a part of it.”

Weaver’s last fight saw him suffer his first defeat as a pro when he finished on the wrong end of a split decision against Wanzell Ellison in New Jersey in April 2014.

The super featherweight, who has been unable to get a licence from the British Boxing Board of Control on medical grounds, had won his previous five fights. Weaver was born with a small cyst on his brain and fights on Navada state and Maltese licenses.

The 25-year-old, who honed his skills under the watchful eye of his father and coach Jay at Ferndown ABC on Whittle Road, Ferndown Industrial Estate, added: “I’ve got a few fights lined up and the sponsor in America was keen for me to go back so, hopefully, that will come off.

“I know I’ve only had six fights as a pro but I’ve done a lot of sparring and going to America has helped me raise my game.

“Floyd Mayweather gave a boxing masterclass against Pacquiao. I know some people said it was a boring fight but, as a boxer, you can’t fail to learn from people like him. I know it sounds simple but he hits and doesn’t get hit. That is why he has had such a long and successful career.”

  • Any company or individual wishing to sponsor Iain Weaver is asked to contact his father Jay Weaver on 07971 295869.