Syphers stepped in to train former NRL centre Joey Leilua

In the midst of preparing for Wade Ryan’s match-up with Japan’s Nath Nwachukwu on November 17, David (Spike) Syphers, offered a helping hand to good friend, Hassan (Huss) El-Achrafi while in Sydney.

El-Achrafi is the trainer of 2016 Dally M Centre of the Year, Joey Leilua who is scheduled to face former NRL forward Chris Heighington on December 22 at the Star Casino.

They will fight on the undercard of Paul Gallen’s return to the ring against Darcy Lussick who has stepped in for Manly prop Josh Aloiai.

To get ready for what will be a new test in Leilua’s career, the newly recruited Featherstone Rovers’ (England) centre, now finds himself training up to six times a week at Huss’ Final Round Gym and is hoping to make a statement.

Speaking to the Gunnedah Times, Syphers explained what it was like to offer his experience and knowledge to Leilua in the week leading up to Ryan’s fight at the Qudos Bank Arena.

“It was a really good experience, he’s a strong boy,” he said.

“He’s an elite athlete, so going from one sport to another, I think he’s ready for the challenge. He’s got good balance and good natural power so it was just about developing his technique, his distance and timing. But nothing too much, just little bits of advice.”

Although only training Leilua for a few days, Syphers was still able to see improvements in Leilua’s southpaw style which he is familiar with, having trained Ryan who also fights at that stance.

With less than a month until the No Limit Boxing event which spans over two-days – December 21-22, Gunnedah’s Enja Prest is expected to feature on the Tuesday, the day before Leilua’s maiden professional boxing bout. An announcement is expected to come in the next couple of weeks.

Former world champion, Andrew Moloney will headline the card against Filipino, Froilan Saludar.