NEW professional Jake Jon Cleary may have missed out on a chance to box at his beloved Oakwell but says the Metrodome is a very good second best.

The Wombwell welterweight, 27, is a big Reds’ fan who would have enjoyed a dream debut had he featured on Callum Simpson’s undercard back in August but the lengthy process of getting a professional licence ruled that out.

He will instead punch for pay for the first time at the Metrodome tomorrow (Saturday) against Richard Helm, from Rochdale.

Though signed with Brampton-based manager Josh Wale, Cleary is staying with his former amateur trainer in Rotherham’s Jamie Kennedy.

He said: “I have had 16 years going home and away.

“I remember going to Gillingham in the driving rain and my mate had his new coat ruined by a pigeon. George Waring scored the winner.

“It’s a love hate relationship that I have with the club.

“The show at Oakwell was too tight and too early for me. To see it like it was on that night with Callum was magic and it was a massive success.

“I’m as game as they come and will get in with anybody but I was building myself up from switching from being an amateur to a professional.

“Some people say they are like different sports but I think my style suits being a professional due to my fitness.

“I can start fast and finish fast.

“The Metrodome has a great atmosphere. I was fortunate enough to box there before and I am really looking forward to doing so again.

“Signing with Josh was a no-brainer. He’s from the next village and he’s absolutely loved there.

“He’s got a lot of the same core values as me and our families go way back.

“I think it’s going to be the start of a positive journey.”

Outside of boxing Cleary works at Royal Mail on their collections.

He had previously worked as a personal trainer following the completion of a sports science degree.

But he wanted to give being a professional a shot.

He added: “I had to take a step back from that because it’s physically and mentally demanding and it’s paid off.

“I knew that if I didn’t go professional now then I would regret it.

“I did not start boxing until I was 20 and did not have my first fight until I was 23.

“I did not really achieve much as a kid but in boxing I have learned a lot about myself.

“I am fit, dedicated and disciplined and know that being a professional boxer can suit me.”