Never underestimate Nick Ball

Standing just 5’2”, Nick Ball is used to giving away inches, and he’ll do so again this Saturday when he defends his WBA featherweight title against Brandon Figueroa in Liverpool.

Ball will concede seven inches in height, but he insists it’s nothing new. “I don't mind punching up. I've been punching up my whole life,” the champion said. “I'm stronger than what I look… it’s going to be an exciting one.”

Ball’s journey has been shaped by that physical disadvantage. From his early days at the Everton Red Triangle gym, his training has always involved attacking targets above his natural reach. The dents left high on the heavy bags are a quiet testament to years spent adapting, adjusting, and thriving against bigger opponents – a theme that has followed him into world title fights.

Despite his rise to the top of the division, Ball believes he is still underestimated. “It shocks a lot of people,” he said. “They’re like, ‘Wow, he's only 5’2” and he's doing things like that.’ You get underestimated and overlooked. But once you show them, it's a good feeling.” The doubts, he admits, only add fuel. “It gives you that extra grit to prove them wrong, and show them, and embarrass them.”

Watch one of the latest Nick Ball's interviews here: Watch

Those experiences trace back to his childhood in Kirkby, where jokes about his size were common. Ball learned early how to channel them. “When someone says you can't do something, don't respond with words,” he said. “Just respond with actions and show them that you can do it, and then leave them with nothing to say.”

Now a world champion, Ball feels the same skepticism still exists among fellow titleholders at 126lbs. “Outside looking in, they probably think, ‘I can handle that,’” he said. “But then when they get in there with me, and they feel it… then they'll know.” As he prepares for another high-profile defense, Ball is clear that this moment is not a finish line. Proud of how far he’s come, he insists it’s “just the start,” with unifications and bigger nights still firmly in his sights.