FORMER world champion Steve Robinson is bringing his skills as a trainer to Newport and looking for local kids to follow in his footsteps.

The Cardiff fighter, known as Cinderella Man, was WBO featherweight champ from 1993 to 1995 and now he’s teamed up with ex-British champion Steve Sims as trainer at his Alway gym.

Chief among the youngsters aiming to emulate Robinson is his own son Luke, who makes his professional debut at the Newport Centre on Saturday, February 5.

“I do personal fitness training in Cardiff but my boy is going to come on better here because this is a real boxing gym,” explained Robinson.

“I’ll be the main trainer and I’m sure people will want to turn pro with me and Steve Sims here.

“I want to build up some world champions in Alway.”

Robinson junior takes on journeyman Craig Dyer in the George & Dragon Promotions Newport show and his dad is predicting a bright future for the 20-year-old.

“Luke has got to learn the game but I turned pro at 20 as well and he’s better than I was at that age,” said his father.

“He’ll be ready to fight for a British title in two or three years and I believe he’s got the talent and the potential to go a long way.”

Greg Steene, head of George & Dragon Promotions with Sims, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have Steve on board. It’s a huge compliment that he’s chosen our gym and with him and Steve Sims here we can only go from strength to strength.”

Sims added: “Steve and I go back a long way and we’re honoured that he’s involved.”

Top of the bill on February 5 are Cefn Fforest’s Rob Turley, who takes on Paul Economides for the Welsh super-bantamweight title, and Newport’s Matthew Edmonds, who will battle Shaun Doherty for the British Masters super-bantam belt.

The first fight starts at 8.15pm. For tickets contact Steve Sims on 07761 965416 or Greg Steene on 07958 642248.