Craig Richards will face Ricards Bolotniks for the WBA Intercontinental Light-Heavyweight Title and EBU European Middleweight Champion Matteo Signani will defend his belt against Felix Cash at The O2 in London on Saturday April 1, live worldwide on DAZN.

Richards (17-3-1, 10 KOs) was originally scheduled to face Bolotnik’s (19-6-1, 8 KOs) on the undercard of Dillian Whyte’s close points win over Jermaine Franklin at the OVO Arena in Wembley last November but the Crystal Palace man was forced to withdraw after falling ill during fight week.

‘Spider’ returns to the scene of his spirited points loss to South London rival Joshua Buatsi last May while Bolotniks, who holds wins over Hosea Burton and Steven Ward, was last in action in April 2022 – decisioning Hrvoje Sep over eight rounds in Barcelona, Spain.

Italy’s European Middleweight ruler Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) landed the title for the first time against Gevorg Khatchikian in Trento back in October 2019 before making successful defences against Maxime Beaussire in 2020 and Ruben Diaz in May 2021. ‘Il Giaguaro’ lost the belt to Anderson Prestot on a technical decision in June last year but avenged that loss in November.

Wokingham’s former British and Commonwealth Champion Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) is looking to add the EBU crown to his collection after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. Cash is on a collision course with American rival Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams and hopes to face the unbeaten contender later this year after going face-to-face with him in a fiery ringside encounter in Leeds.

“I’m expecting a great fight with Bolotniks,” said Richards. “He is a good fighter and a lot of people know that which will allow me to showcase how good of a fighter I am. I’m excited to be on this card, it’s ironic it’s the return of Joshua because I feel like it’s my return too. A win against Bolotniks puts me heavily in the mix with the big boys and looking to push on to big things.”

“2022 was a tough one for me personally but I’m determined to make this my year,” said Cash. “In 2023 I’m coming for all the belts and want the biggest fights possible, starting with the European Title at The O2. The work I’ve been putting in the gym with Tony Sims has been fantastic and I’ve never felt better, come April 1 everyone is going to see that I’m the real deal.”

Tickets for Joshua vs. Franklin are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £400 and £800 (VIP).

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and AXS from midday on Thursday February 9.

Dillian Whyte will face undefeated American contender Jermaine Franklin on his highly anticipated return to the ring on Saturday November 26 at the OVO Arena, Wembley, live worldwide on DAZN.

‘The Body Snatcher’ (28-3, 19 KOs) fell short in his challenge for Tyson Fury’s WBC Heavyweight World Title at Wembley Stadium in April, succumbing to a sixth-round stoppage defeat in front of over 90,000 fans. 

Brixton’s big-hitting former Interim WBC Heavyweight World Champion, 35, is set to fight at the OVO Arena, Wembley for the first time in his career as he looks to kickstart his journey towards a second shot at world honours. 

Michigan’s Franklin (21-0, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in 21 fights since joining the professional ranks in April 2015 and the 28-year-old will be fighting outside of the USA for the first time in his professional career when he meets Whyte over 12 rounds in London. 

Once described as America’s next Heavyweight hope, Franklin ended a two-and-a-half-year layoff by stopping Houston’s Rodney Moore in five rounds at McBride Hall in Gary, Indiana in May to extend his perfect record.

An action-packed undercard sees fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (14-0, 13 KOs) clash with Nantwhich’s Nathan Gorman (19-1, 13 KOs) for the vacant British Title, former WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title challenger Craig Richards (17-3-1, 10 KOs) take on Latvian warrior Ricards Bolotniks (19-6-1, 8 KOs) in an exciting match-up at 175lbs and Derby’s Sandy Ryan (4-1, 2 KOs) challenge Mexico’s Magali Rodriguez (20-6-2, 9 KOs) for her WBC Silver Super-Lightweight Title.

Wardley, 27, stopped Simon Vallily in three rounds of their hotly anticipated grudge match to pick up the vacant English Title at Fight Camp in August 2020 before blitzing Nick Webb inside one round to retain the belt a year later at Matchroom’s HQ in Essex.

Gorman, whose only loss came at the hands of Daniel Dubois back in July 2019, dusted off 15 months of ringrust in his last fight in June, bulldozing through Tomas Salek in just 81 seconds to win the IBF Intercontinental Title at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

Crystal Palace’s Richards put in a spirited display as he pushed WBA Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in his first World Title attempt in May 2021. ‘Spider’ returned to winning ways by impressively stopping Marek Matyja in six rounds before being outpointed by South London rival Joshua Buatsi at The O2 earlier this year.

Bolotniks, who holds wins over Steven Ward and Hosea Burton, will be familiar to UK fight fans following his brave battle with Olympic Bronze Medallist Buatsi at Matchroom’s second instalment of Fight Camp last summer – where he was eventually stopped in the eleventh round of their WBA International Title clash. 

Former Team GB star Ryan goes for her second title in the pro ranks after exacting revenge over Erica Anabella Farias – the only woman to beat her – at the Sheffield Arena in August to pick up the vacant WBC International Super-Lightweight Title. 

“It’s great to be back, doing what I love doing,” said Whyte. “I can’t wait to get into the ring and show the world that when push comes to shove I can get right back up in Wembley and remind everyone why I was WBC number one for over four years. 

“As an undefeated Heavyweight, Franklin is a dangerous guy but I’m going to teach him quite a few lessons at the OVO on November 26. Most importantly, I’m going to teach him how to lose.”

“I’m super hyped to fight in the UK,” said Franklin. “They love boxing and I plan on making a statement when I beat Dillian. I want them to be loud and love my boxing style and have them embrace me as the people’s champ. The world will see the real Jermaine Franklin Jr. 

“Dillian is a warrior. He has heart and he’s been with the best. It’s time for him to step aside and let the ‘989 Assassin’ make him body number 22 on my body count. The kind of fight I expect is a brawl. Dillian wants to prove he’s got something left in the tank. I want to show him I’m the future of boxing and for USA Heavyweights. 

“When I beat Dillian I want this victory to be followed with a title shot or a major fight to take me to the title. I’m like Holyfield. I’m a warrior. I’m from the hood. You have to take my heart and that will never happen in the ring. I have speed and power. I have no problem taking a punch to land my own. I am America’s next Heavyweight Champion.”

“I’m buzzing to be fighting for the British Title, I’ve had my eyes set on this belt for so long and I can’t wait to get my hands on it,” said Wardley. “Nathan Gorman’s a good fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from checking off this next milestone of my career. I thrive under the pressure of big fights like this, I live for it, there’ll be no better feeling than standing over him with my hand raised. I take my opportunities when they come, I’m not going to need any second chances like he did.

“I’ve never trained harder, I’ve never been fitter, it’s like the stars have aligned for this camp and everything is coming together perfectly. I’ve come on leaps and bounds with the new addition to my coaching team and I’m technically improving every day. That mixed with my natural athleticism and serious KO power, there’s nothing Nathan can bring to stop me.”

“It’s my second opportunity fighting for the British Title, so I’ve got to take it with both hands and this time it isn’t going anywhere other than back home with me,” said Gorman. “It’s against Fabio Wardley, and I know I’ll be facing the best Wardley that has ever entered that ring. Unfortunately for him, that will be met with the best Nathan Gorman, who is improving every second he spends in that gym.

“The thing I have that he doesn’t possess is the experience. I’ve already been in there with tougher questions that I have come through and answered, whereas I’m his acid test. It’ll be interesting if he lasts longer than rounds 5 or 6, he has a cut eye, and things aren’t going his way. He isn’t going to be able to match what I bring.”

“I’m delighted to welcome one of the biggest stars in Heavyweight boxing Dillian Whyte to the DAZN platform,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The Body Snatcher is hungrier than ever after falling short in his first ever World Title challenge earlier this year and he’s jumping straight back in at the deep end against a young and dangerous fighter in Jermaine Franklin. Expect Maximum Violence in an England vs. USA main event.

“We’ve got an incredible undercard in store for you at the OVO Arena, Wembley on November 26 including the vacant British Heavyweight Title clash between Fabio Wardley and Nathan Gorman, a brilliant match-up at 175lbs between former World Title challenger Craig Richards and Ricards Bolotniks and Sandy Ryan going for another title against tough Mexican Magali Rodriguez. Catch it all live worldwide on DAZN.”

 “Nathan has made a fantastic comeback this year having had 18-months out, with the quick capture of an IBF Title being proof of that,” said Wasserman’s Head of Global Boxing, Kalle Sauerland. 

“Of course, the British Heavyweight Championship is one of the most respected titles in boxing and will propel him on to the world stage even further. We’re very confident Nathan will get the job done on November 26 and set up a HUGE 2023.”

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Dillian Whyte, one of the biggest names in Heavyweight boxing, to the platform on November 26,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. “Jermaine Franklin will be a tough test for Dillian with the fight topping a stacked card full of action-packed matchups including Wardley vs. Gorman, Richards vs. Bolotniks and of course a future star in Sandy Ryan. Do not miss this fight! Live and exclusive and part of your DAZN subscription worldwide.”

Ticket details will be released shortly.

Joshua Buatsi remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Craig Richards at The O2 Arena in London.

Buatsi, 174.75 lbs of Croydon, ENG won by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice and is now 16-0. Richards, 174.25 lbs of Crystal Palace, ENG is 17-3-1.

Cameron Decisions Bustos; Retains Unified 140 lb. Titles

Chantelle Cameron defended the WBC/IBG Super Lightweight titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Victoria Bustos.

Cameron, 140 lbs of Northamptonm ENG won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 16-0. Bustos, 137.3 lbs of Rosario, ARG is now 23-.

Babic Decisions Balski

Alen Babic went the distance for the first time and won a 10-round unanimous decision over Adam Balski in a bridgerweight fight.

In round one, Balski dropped Babic with a left hook to the top of the head.

Balski was deducted a point for clocking and hurting Babic after hitting after the ninth round bell.

Babic, 208.4 lbs of Zagreb, CRO won by scores of 97-91 twice and 95-93 and is now 11-0. Balski, 210.2 lbs of Warsaw, POL is 16-2.

Scotney Decisions Roman

Ellie Scotney won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Cecilla Roman in a super bantamweight bout.

Scotney, 121.7 lbs of Catford, ENG won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 5-0. Roman, 121.7 lbs of San Juan, ARG is 16-7-1.

Davies Jr. Decisions Javier Molina

Robbie Davies Jr. won a 10-round split-decision over former United States Olympian Javier Molina in a super lightweight fight.

Davies Jr., 139.75 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by scores of 96-94 twice while Molina took a card 97-94.

Davies Jr. is 23-3. Molina, 139.75 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 22-5.

Cheavon Clarke remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Paweil Martyniuk in a scheduled six-round cruiserweight bout.

In round three, Clarke dropped Martyniuk with a body shot. Seconds later, it was another body shot that put Martyniyuk down and the fight was stopped at 1:10.

Clarke, 199 lbs of Gravesend, ENG is 2-0 with two knockouts.

Cyrus Pattinson remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Dimitri Trenel in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Pattinson dropped Trenel with a left to the body. Seconds later, a flurry of shots that were mostly to the body had the corner throw in the towel at 2:21

Pattinson, 150 lbs of Alnwick, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Trenel, 149.9 lbs of Dainville, FRA is 8-1.

John Hedges stopped Robert Baltrau in round three of a six-round light heavyweight contest.

In round three, Hedges landed a perfect left that sent Baltaru to the canvas. Baltaru got to his feet but the fight was stopped at 2:24.

Hedges, 182.7 lbs of Talkaley, ENG is now 6-0 with two knockouts. Baltaru, 181.2 lbs of Braga, PR is 2-1-1.

Shiloh DeFreitas remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Iliyan Markov in a super lightweight contest.

In round three, Markov began to bleed from his mouth. In round six, DeFreitas with a right to the body.

DeFreitas, 146.75 lbs of London won by a score of 60-54 and is now 4-0. Markov, 146 lbs of Sofia, Bulgaria is 6-20-2.

16:45 BST FIRST FIGHT LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL 

6 x 3 mins International Super-Lightweight contest
SHILOH DEFREITAS 146lbs 12oz v ILIYAN MARKOV 146lbs  
(London, England)                             (Sofia, Bulgaria)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Light-Heavyweight contest
JOHN HEDGES 182lbs 11oz v ROBERT BALTARU 181lbs 3oz
(Takeley, England)                     (Braga, Portugal)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
CYRUS PATTINSON 150lbs v DIMITRI TRENEL 149lbs 15oz
(Alnwick, England)                  (Dainville, France)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest
CHEAVON CLARKE 199lbs 1oz v PAWEIL MARTYNIUK 196lbs
(Gravesend, England)                    (Warsaw, Poland)

followed by

19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Super-Lightweight Title 
ROBBIE DAVIES JR 139lbs 12oz v JAVIER MOLINA 139lbs 12oz      
(Liverpool, England)                         (Norwalk, USA)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBA Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight Title
ELLIE SCOTNEY 121lbs 8oz v CECILLA ROMAN 121lbs 8oz
(Catford, England)                      (San Juan, Argentina)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBC Silver Bridgerweight Title 
ALEN BABIC 208lbs 6oz v ADAM BALSKI 210lbs 3oz      
(Zagreb, Croatia)                 (Warsaw, Poland)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBC and IBF Super-Lightweight World Titles
CHANTELLE CAMERON 140lbs v VICTORIA NOELLA BUSTOS 137lbs 5oz
(Northampton, England)                 (Rosario, Argentina)

followed by
 
12 x 3 mins WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title Eliminator
JOSHUA BUATSI 174lbs 12oz v CRAIG RICHARDS 174lbs 4oz         
(Croydon, England)                     (Crystal Palace, England)

Joshua Buatsi:

“I think there’s always people to prove wrong Eddie… The talking is nearly done. We’re going to find out on Saturday. The switch hasn’t flicked yet. I don’t think it personally flicked during that face off but we are two or three days away and the switch will definitely flick.

“The struggle from camp, I’ve got that in me. And I know how I want to perform on Saturday. And it’s time to show it because camp was very hard. And I’ve paid the price but someone else has got to pay it now.

“The way that life is now, I go anywhere I need to go to improve. It happened to be in the States. It happened to be in Cali and that’s where I’m at. We all have one career. So wherever I have to be, that’s where I have to be. My family my friends understand that when it’s all over we can party and we can celebrate. But for now Saturday is what’s next.

“Every boxer has got an ego. Everyone sitting on this table has an ego and wants to win. Who here wants to go into a fight and lose? No hands. See what I’m saying. 

“I win by being myself. You can look at the stats and say ‘oh this is how he usually wins, this is the style that he fights’, but I’m going to bring it and I’m in it to win it. There’s no other way.”

Craig Richards:

“100% Eddie, I do believe that I’ll be victorious otherwise I would it be here today. I believe all the fights that I’ve taken have put me in good stead.

“I just say what I want to say. If I feel something I say it.

“It’s not personal to Josh, I just believe that I’m the best in the division. I’m very good at adapting to fighters. I’ve got a very good IQ and it just depends on what I want to bring and what I’ve got in the toolbox that night. And I believe I’ve got the tools to get the job done on Saturday night. It’s not personal to him it’s just that I believe I have the ability to beat anyone. 

“I’ve got to keep proving the doubters wrong.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“I know this is gonna be a tough fight, but that’s what I want. I want the tough fights. I want to prove that I’m a worthy World champion.

 “If the stoppage comes, it’ll be nice… I’m hitting harder and I’m fitter. We’ve been working on a few tactics and I think that my punches are going to be a bit more hurtful yeah.”

Victoria Bustos:

“Whenever I prepare for any fight I prepare really really well… we have prepared excellently.

“I think the fight is going to be a fantastic one on Saturday. I think it’s going to be quite strategic and tactical you know. 

“Whenever I’ve been called upon for an opportunity, I never say no… I step up. And this is the same case on Saturday. 

“In terms of Saturday night, it’s all about not missing the opportunity… but you never know, fights can be great and they can turn out brilliantly but let’s see how this one’s going to go.”

Alen Babic:

“I’m fulfilling my dream every time I come here. I’m in the best shape of my life. 

“I expect this to be another knockout, a crazy knockout. I’m not just going there to box. I’m back to my old self. I’m just going to try to knockout this guy. I respect him and he respects me. It’s all good.

“Let’s all just end careers by The Savage! 

“I don’t have opinions. I just do stuff and that’s what I’m gonna do.”

Adam Balksi:

“As long as I can remember my friends from Poland lost when they came here, but I’m here to win.

“First of all I do respect my opponent, but he might not have too much experience in boxing. We will see on Saturday in the ring.”

Robbie Davies Jr:

“Every fight that gets offered now, I just accept them all and leave them all to the team. They will sort it out and I’ll fight them all.”

Javier Molina:

“I know Robbie is a tough fighter and I’m coming off of two losses against two tough fighters. 

“I’m coming back down to my natural weight and I’ve been training hard. After two losses I never questioned my ability or what I could do in the sport. The only thing I questioned was what I need to adjust.”

Ellie Scotney:

“I’ve stepped up every fight and I’m winning too so Saturday night is another step and I really got a step up so I’ll make sure that I do.”

Cecilia Roman:

“When you except a defeat, it’s not something that holds you back forever. It brings more will to come back and perseverance. I’ve got a huge desire to perform well this weekend.”

Cheavon Clarke:

“Yeah fight number two! I’m looking forward to it just to correct things that I didn’t do right in fight number one.

“I don’t think many people can say they’ve had back to back fights at The O2 at the start of their careers. So I’m excited for that! And also we’re in London, my home city so lots of people can come and watch. Looking forward to putting on a performance.”

Cyrus Pattinson:

“You’ve just got to dust yourself off and carry-on. 

“When you cannot control what happens in a situation, you have to control how you respond and that’s all I’ve been trying to do, staying positive.

 “I definitely feel like I’m transitioning to the pros now. I want to have one more fight at eight rounds and then I think I’m ready.”

John Hedges:

“This is my third one on the spin at The O2 so can’t complain at all. I’m getting spoiled here! 

 “I want to show development and keep on improving … and hopefully just keep the ball rolling so that performances get better.

Shiloh Defreitas:

“For this fight I’ve learned something different about myself. This fight you’re going to see a different side to me, a spiteful side.

“I chose the harder route on purpose because it makes me develop and it makes me try harder and push harder.”

Craig Richards believes he will prove he is the best Light-Heavyweight in Britain – and book himself a well-earned second shot at World title honours with a London derby win over Joshua Buatsi at The O2 this Saturday May 21, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

Richards (17-2-1, 10 KOs) is hunting down another crack at the WBA belt that he’s already boxed for, and he bounced back from a slender defeat to champion Dmitry Bivol a year ago by stopping Marek Matyja in this arena in October to land the vacant WBA International belt.

‘Spider’ knows that while he’s boxed for a World title, this could be as big a night as that event, with his fellow South Londoner touted as a World Champion in waiting since turning pro with Eddie Hearn after landing Olympic bronze in 2016.

Richards concedes that his opposite number has the pedigree, but he feels he’s done the harder yards in the paid ranks to date, and that will be the difference on the night.

“It’s an exciting fight,” said Richards. “He’s been talked about as being ‘the guy’ in the division but I believe I’ve earned my place as ‘the guy’ in the division. People base that for him off speculation and for me off my wins, the talking is over now, and we’ll see who is number one.

“He did well as an amateur around the world and in the Olympics, you can’t argue with that. Are those skills transferable to the pros? He was tipped to be one of the fighters from that crop of Olympians to do big things. As a professional I’ve jumped into deep waters and proved myself, I’ve been the underdog time and time again. 

“We’re yet to see that from Josh, there hasn’t been a fight he’s been in that anyone has said, ‘this is a 50-50 fight, I think Josh could lose this fight’. Talking about who has the better CV, he’s unbeaten but I’ve had the hard fights. He’s had that amateur pedigree and has been guided into a safer journey. He’s earned that right of course, but with me I have had to jump in, sink or swim, and he’s played it safe, but the safety cap is off now.”

Wins over domestic foes Shakan Pitters and Jake Ball shine on Richards’ resume, but recent events make his loss against Bivol stand out for different reasons. The Crystal Palace man gave the long reigning champion the stiffest examination of his tenure at the top when they met in Manchester, with the champion retaining the belt on points, but only by one and two rounds on two of the cards.

Bivol is now a major player on the world stage having successfully defended his title earlier this month in a stunning display against Canelo Alvarez in Las Vegas – a performance that has shone a new light on Richards’ own effort against the unbeaten WBA ruler.

“If you see the performance I put in against Bivol against the performance Canelo put in, our fight was closer,” said Richards. “If I had started a bit quicker, I could have won the fight and I gave him problems. I had to go through negative commentary, people pushing this agenda that ‘Bivol had an off-night’. Every time I beat someone, they have an off night. How come it can’t be that I am good, and I am making these fighters look not as good as people say because of my skill? 

“Bivol said of me, that my IQ was good, it was a thinking fight and that I was setting traps for him and was reading what I was going to do. He even said to Eddie afterwards backstage, ‘where the f*** did you find this guy?’ He was impressed with me and said I was good. We both knew the fight was close and he got the nod, but he knew I did well. 

“Saturday is what matters – getting credit now or then it doesn’t really change anything. If I don’t go and perform, everything I’ve done is dead and buried. I’ve dealt with a lot of negatives around my performances and my career, I think that the my Bivol performance and then his win over Canelo is going to increase the attention and that people will see I gave him a harder fight and that might change people’s opinions of May 21. 

“Joshua believes in himself, and he just wants to execute the plan in his head, he won’t be thinking of me, and Bivol won’t change that. I’ve been the underdog many times and it never bothers me; it doesn’t change the outcome for me – you still have to do the work in there.”

Buatsi vs. Richards tops a huge night of action in London, Northampton’s WBC and IBF Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron (15-0, 8 KOs) defends her crowns against Argentina’s former World Champion Victoria Noelia Bustos (23-6) as she waits for a date for her huge Undisputed clash with WBA and WBO ruler Kali Reis.

Big hitting Croat Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (10-0, 10 KOs) will look to keep his destructive knockout streak going when he takes on Poland’s Adam Balski (16-1, 9 KOs) for the vacant WBC Silver Bridgerweight Title.

Liverpool’s Robbie Davies Jr (22-3, 15 KOs) aims to build on his impressive stoppage win over Henry Lundy back in December when he puts his WBA Continental Super-Lightweight Title on the line against another American Javier Molina (22-4, 9 KOs).

Catford’s Ellie Scotney (4-0) was made to work hard as she battled past Jorgelina Guanini to earn the WBA Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight crown at the famous Alexandra Palace in February – she puts that belt on the line against Argentina’s former World Champion Maria Roman (16-6-1).

Elsewhere on the card there’s action for Takeley Light-Heavyweight youngster ‘The Gentleman’ John Hedges (5-0, 1 KO), former Team GB Olympian turned Cruiserweight prospect Cheavon Clarke (1-0, 1 KO), Alnwick Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (3-0, 1 KO) and London Super-Lightweight talent Shiloh ‘Sugar Shy’ Defreitas (3-0, 2 KOs).

Remaining tickets for Buatsi vs. Richards are available to purchase from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk).

Joshua Buatsi wants to leave no doubt that he’s the leading Light-Heavyweight in the country when he faces South London rival Craig Richards in a huge clash at The O2 this Saturday May 21, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

Buatsi (15-0, 13 KOs) finally gets his hands on one of his fellow high-flying domestic rivals at 175lbs, with Richards hunting down a second World title shot after rising to the occasion in a tight loss to Dmitry Bivol last May in Manchester. 

Richards’ performance against the WBA champion looks more impressive after Bivol produced a masterclass to defeat Mexican pound for pound king Canelo Alvarez earlier in the month, and the Crystal Palace man has been bullish in the build-up, saying that he is Buatsi’s first real test in the paid ranks.

The Olympic bronze medal man has adopted the mantra ‘Just Business’ in and out of the ring for the clinical way he goes about his work, and while there’s local bragging rights up for grabs against Richards, Buatsi knows that victory would lay the foundation to both claim the number one spot in the country and underline the need for a World title shot to be next.

“I am the best in the country,” said Buatsi. “The truth is though; we haven’t fought each other. Spider is the first Light-Heavyweight in Britain that I am boxing, so from there I can make a point of it. Everyone can say they are the best, but until someone gets a World title to separate themselves, then everyone has a point to make, and we are the first to really fight. 

“He is saying I haven’t proved myself, but I don’t think that’s true. We were both amateurs, he fought, I fought, we entered the same tournaments, and I went on and did what I did. So, he cannot say that I’ve had an easier route, just because I went to the Olympics and did well. I killed myself for that medal, gave everything for it, so the narrative people have said and that he’s said too, I don’t think it’s true. 

“I think I had that 50-50 fight against Ricards Bolotniks. A few of the governing bodies had him in their top five. I didn’t rank him, they ranked him. He was a very good opponent and I stopped him. His management team said that they rated me for taking the fight, because all the other Light-Heavyweights in the country didn’t want to fight him. We didn’t think twice. 

“Craig had a good scrap with Bivol, but people have forgotten about it. I beat Bolotniks and people have forgotten about that too, that’s just what happens, but we’re here now. There wasn’t a lot of options out there, it was a fight that was being pushed and I said, ‘cool let’s take it’. It’s a good fight, he’s a good opponent, it’s in London. I have the same mindset and I’ll handle business as usual.

“I’m unbeaten but that means nothing to me. I haven’t got time to listen to the masses. He’s in front of me and that’s all that matters, not who is one or two, just the fight that’s happening and that’s what is in front of me. We’re not talking, we’re not making assumptions, we’re not predicting – we know that May 21 this is the guy I have got.

“I am better than him 100 per cent. Come on. I’ve looked at him in the eyes and he knows who I am. You don’t need to explain. I don’t need to talk smack and I don’t need the media. I love my private life. I’ve got opinions, but I don’t care about social media or any of that. Forget the image, when I fight, it’s straight violence. I carry myself in a certain way, but when I get in the ring, it’s straight violence. In professional boxing we’re all carrying ourselves in a certain way, but the brakes are off when I’m in the ring. The talking doesn’t do it, the fighting does.

“The reality is we’re going to fight. I have a self-belief, not everyone thinks I’m good or the next big thing, and that’s ok, I don’t care what the masses say. Whatever I must do, I will do and in that ring, I know in myself that I will find a way to win and do what I have to do. Winning by any formula.  I’ve looked at him, I’ve seen him, I know what is going to happen to him and he knows too.”

Remaining tickets for Buatsi vs. Richards are available to purchase from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk).

Alen Babic will look to keep his destructive knockout streak going when he takes on Adam Balski for the vacant WBC Silver Bridgerweight Title on the undercard of Joshua Buatsi’s huge domestic Light-Heavyweight clash with Craig Richards at The O2 in London on Saturday May 21, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).
 
The big-hitting Croat took six rounds to take out Frenchman David Spilmont on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s rematch with Derek Chisora last time out in December – taking ‘The Savage’s’ record to ten knockouts from ten fights since turning pro in July 2019.
 
Northampton’s WBC and IBF Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron (15-0, 8 KOs) defends her crowns against Argentina’s former World Champion Victoria Noelia Bustos (23-6) as she waits for a date for her huge Undisputed clash with WBA and WBO ruler Kali Reis.
 
Liverpool’s Robbie Davies Jr (22-3, 15 KOs) looks to build on his impressive stoppage win over Henry Lundy back in December when he puts his WBA Continental Super-Lightweight Title on the line against another American Javier Molina (22-4, 9 KOs).
 
Catford’s Ellie Scotney (4-0) was made to work hard as she battled past Jorgelina Guanini to earn the WBA Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight crown at the famous Alexandra Palace in February – she puts that belt on the line against Argentina’s former World Champion Maria Cecilia Roman (16-6-1).
 
Elsewhere on the card there’s action for Takeley Light-Heavyweight youngster ‘The Gentleman’ John Hedges (5-0, 1 KO), former Team GB Olympian turned Cruiserweight prospect Cheavon Clarke (1-0, 1 KO) and London Super-Lightweight talent Shiloh ‘Sugar Shy’ Defreitas (3-0, 2 KOs).

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Welcome to London, a huge press conference for a fantastic fight. I say Domestic fight, but also a fight that has such huge ramifications for the world 175lbs scene.

“Joshua Buatsi, Olympic bronze medallist against Craig Richards, a man who’s won British Titles, challenged for the World Title as well. This is a kind of fight that gets me excited, this is the kind of fight that seems so obvious. Two brilliant Domestic fighters but also two world class fighters as well.

“A World Title challenger in Craig Richards and a man that many believe is destined for greatness at 175lbs. I want to thank to teams of both fighters; you need to understand these guys know each other. One from Croydon and one from Crystal Palace, a stone’s throw from each other and they’ve known each other for many years.

“Sometimes in boxing they don’t want to make these fights, trainers, managers, advisors, fighters – ‘we’ll wait for our World Title shot’. You need to stop waiting, fighters out there that are queuing up for a World Title shot that is not imminent, don’t stall your career when you could be involved in brilliant fights, fights that could take your career to another level. That’s what we’ve got May 21 in London.”

Joshua Buatsi:

“A few months ago, I sat in your [Eddie’s] office and said get me these fights, there’s good Light-Heavyweights in the country so it’s good to mix it with one of them. As fighters you go to shows and watch, when there’s a main event with a buzz you think I wish I was in there. I’ve got mine now, for me it’s’ now just preparing for May 21, Spider will bring his A game but I’m ready.

“I wouldn’t dub it as the hardest test, for me, it’s just the most important fight in my career right now. It’s the next fight, the fight I must win, last time with Bolotniks but this time it’s Spider. I’ll prepared as diligently as I do, come May 21 I’ll be ready.

“I have to thank Matchroom and Spider’s team, also my team, for making this fight happen. Fighters can tend to wait for the opportunity, for me currently it’s looking a bit tricky, but I’ve got a good fight and that’s what I’m concentrating on.

“I think that [Canelo] makes this a big fight for me, makes it even more important. I know what is at stake, what the reward is and that’s what I said when I was in Arizona. I’ll fight these guys as long as I know what’s next. This may lead to a World Title fight next so for me, I’m easy, no matter who it is I’m prepared.

“I’m at the point where I want to fight these guys, I want to get into these big fights. May 21 is the first stop and when we handle that, we deal with whoever is next.” 

“This is nothing new, outside I’m cool and calm probably like a lot of boxers but when I’m in that ring I know what time it is. I know what I need to do, and the situation is, nice guys come last and that’s what it is in the ring. Outside the ring be how you want to be, but in that ring, I know what I have to do. In May I’ll be ready.”

Craig Richards:

“I think this was a fight that was always going to be in the pipeline, I believed I was going to get to world level, I believed he [Buatsi] was obviously destined for world level as well so we knew our paths would cross at some point. It’s a good clash.

“For myself, I want to get back into the mix, challenge and win a World Title. I think this is the bridge to cross to make that happen today.

“Obviously I’ve been thrown in the deep end a few times and I’ve just been swimming and swimming. I have no regrets because that’s what has put me in this position today, I’ve had a lot of domestic clashes, grudge matches and cross path fights. That’s all built my experience and ability to be confident enough to go in to win and win on May 21.

“I believe if I didn’t have those fights, it would be a harder fight, if this fight was scheduled without the experience. I’m ready to go, that’s what’s made me confident, I’m seeing the growth in myself every fight and every week, every day in gym. I’m just looking forward to going out and perform, showing that experience of the hard route.

“If you look at the titles I’ve won at Light-Heavyweight, I think three of the fights I was the underdog in those. When I beat Jake Ball, I was a massive underdog, they wrote me off and I went out there, delivered and got the knockout. My last title fight I was the favourite, but it didn’t mean anything different, I went out and delivered. If the bookies want to sleep on me that’s up to them. The same person is in front of me, I’m not interested in the bookies or what people say, I’ve got a job to do, and I’ll deliver.

“Josh is going to the gym to iron out all of his flaws fight by fight, what I have seen is that he showed heart and grit. I know he’s got the will to win, and he will come to win. Like the other unbeaten fighters I’ve faced, more importantly, they’ve more will to win. I know he isn’t going to come out and lie down, that’s for me to go and prepare to make sure I get the task done.

“He’s not a stupid guy, he’s very intelligent, he’s not silly enough to just gas himself up saying yeah, I’m going to walk over Richards. I know he’s going to be preparing very hard, he’s going to invest in his camp and preparing diligently for me.

“I’m not going to be looking at him thinking this is a walk over, I’ll be preparing just as hard if not harder for him. We both know we’re in for a solid fight May 21 and I don’t anyone’s sleeping in each other. I believe we’ll both be well prepared and bringing out A games May 21.

“I think I’ve got the capabilities to win in any way, the most important thing is to prepare all-round the board. I’ve got to be prepared for everything, at this level you can’t just say I’m going to win it by a jab or closing him down. You’ve got prepare for Plan A, B, C or D, you might have to get rough and ready or box and be clever. It all depends on the night, you’ve just got to make sure you’ve prepared, have all your game plans and be fit, ready and strong. On the night just make it happen, listen to your team most importantly and execute what you need to win the fight.”

Joshua Buatsi will face former World Title challenger Craig Richards in a huge all London Light-Heavyweight clash on Saturday May 21, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

Croydon’s Buatsi (15-0, 13 KOs) scored his tenth knockout in a row when he stopped Latvia’s Ricards Bolotniks in the eleventh round of their WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title Eliminator on the third and final week of Matchroom Fight Camp in August. 

The 29-year-old was set to face Russia’s former World Title challenger Maxim Vlasov on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s rematch with Derek Chisora at the AO Arena in Manchester in December before suffering a hand injury. 

Crystal Palace’s former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Richards (17-2-1, 10 KOs) put in a spirited display as he pushed WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in his first World Title attempt in May 2021.

‘Spider’ returned to winning ways at The O2 last October on the Cameron vs. McGee undercard, impressively stopping Poland’s Marek Matyja in six rounds to earn the vacant WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title. 

“Two London boys coming together, it’s going to be a huge night,” said Buatsi. “The Light-Heavyweight scene in this country is thriving and I’m glad that we are able to get one of the biggest fights made. The crowd are going to be in for a treat. I am coming to win and nothing else, I am sure Richards is doing the same. He had a close fight with Bivol so will want to make things straight, but I have other plans. Win well and then push onto the World Title by any means necessary.”

“We’re two top tier fighters from the UK,” said Richards. “This is one of the biggest London domestic clashes for a long time. This is a very exciting fight for us both, but also one the fans will enjoy. Buatsi has got his plans and I’m sure he be well prepared, but nobody is going to stop me from fulfilling my destiny of becoming a World Champion! He is a solid competitor and will be coming to win, but I am confident and believe I have the tools to get the job done. I proved myself at world level and I’m eager to prove that’s where I belong.”

“A big well done and thank you to Joshua and Craig for taking this fight, it’s exactly the kind of fight boxing should be making,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “Two domestic Light-Heavyweights on the verge of a World Title shot decide to put it on the line rather than wait in a queue, giving us a fantastic battle of London that can only be a thriller.”

“Who doesn’t love a big domestic dust up? And this certainly fits that description, what a fantastic fight this is set to be,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “With an electric Light-Heavyweight scene in the UK, Joshua Buatsi will face a big test on May 21 against former World Title challenger Craig Richards. This will be all out action from start to finish, all live and exclusively on DAZN.”

*Venue to be confirmed tomorrow at launch press conference

Former Heavyweight champion Joseph Parker survived a opening seconds knockdown to comeback and win s 12-round split decision over Derek Chisora at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

Chisora floored Parker in the opening 10 seconds when he landed an overhand right to the top of the head. The fight had some good back and forth moments and some sloppy moments, but it was an entertaining scrap that saw each have some good moments throughout the fight.

Chisora landed 245 of 613 punches; Parker was 181 of 593.

Parker, 241,2 lbs of Auckland, NZ won by scores of 116-111 and 115-113. Chisora took a card 115-113.

Parker is 29-2. Chisora, 250.8 lbs of Finchley, ENG is 32-11.

“I am feeling it,” Parker told Matchroom. “Derek landed a lot of shots on me. I’ll probably feel it more tomorrow. The plan was to come out and box smartly and stay focused. I got caught right at the beginning. I think it was round the back of the head, I didn’t see it.

“The plan was to box and move and be smart. With the guidance of Andy I was able to box. We didn’t have the longest time together. I know I needed a lot of work. I need to keep learning from Andy and practicing the things we work on in the gym. 

“It was a tough fight and I got caught right at the beginning. I just had to dig deep and stay focused and follow the plan that we had in place. Swayed off a bit, but Derek is a very tough opponent. He came forward, put pressure on me from the beginning. Threw big bombs and landed a lot. 

“The boxing skills won me some rounds towards the end. It was a very close fight. I thought it could go either way, and I’m very thankful and blessed to get the win today. He brought the smoke. If you want to feel it, jump in the ring with him. 

“It’s very achievable [World Title fight]. I just have to get back to the training. There’s a lot of things I have to work on. I had a good plan in place. There’s still a lot I can show, I just have to keep working with Andy, and more camps ahead. We could do it next fight.”

Taylor wins narrow decision over Jonas; Retains Undisputed Lightweight Title

.Katie Taylor retained her undisputed lightweight world titles with a close unanimous decision over Natasha Jonas in a battle of Olympians.

Taylor, 134.8 lbs of Bray, IRE won by scores of 96-94 and 96-95 twice and is now 18-0. Jonas, 134.7 lbs of Liverpool, UK is 9-2.

“Again, it was probably a bit too exciting for my liking,” Taylor told Matchroom. “It was definitely a toe to toe battle in there. I thought I was a bit flat early on, but I dug deep to win the championship rounds. I definitely showed the heart of a champion in there and that’s what won me the fight in the end.

“She showed everything it takes to win a World Title in her last two performances. Tonight was a brilliant showcase for women’s boxing and boxing overall. Every time we fought as amateurs it was that type of fight as well. I’d prepared for a hard ten-round battle tonight and that’s exactly what it was.

“Eddie was saying that fight would have brought the PPV sales up a small bit. That’s obviously a great start. I feel sorry for the main event coming out after that fight. It was a thrilling fight. I’m just delighted to come out of it with the belts and still undefeated. 18-0, onwards and upwards. This is what I’m in the sport for, I want to be involved in the biggest fights. There’s plenty of those fights out there for me.”

Eubank Jr. Decisions Morrison

Chris Eubank Jr. won a 10-round unanimous decision over Marcus Morrison in a middleweight bout.

Eubank, 161.9 lbs of Brighton, ENG won by scores of 98-92 on all cards, and is now 30-2. Morrison, 161.8 lbs of Hattersley, ENG is 23-4.

“My last fight lasted two rounds, so really it’s been two years since I had a twelve-round fight,” Eubank Jr told Matchroom. “There was definitely some ring rust, and there was definitely some getting back into the swing of things. I had him hurt bad in the second round. I backed off. I wanted him to recover so that I could be seen again. 

“I’m back on TV, I’m back fighting, this is my home. This is my life; this is what I do. I wanted to go the distance and get those rounds in. I’m happy with the performance. I followed instruction; he was telling me to do things in the corner and I went out there and did it. That’s kind of alien to me. Usually most of my career has been dependent on what I want to do, my instincts and my reaction. But now we have a head coach in Roy Jones Jr and I full trust him. I’m happy to be paired with him.

“This is the beginning of a long and great journey for me. I want to be very active this year, I want to fight at least twice more. This is a good start. Full credit to Marcus. I’ve hit guys with shots like that and they’ve gone. He kept coming. A lot of respect for Marcus. There’s a lot of World Champions in the Middleweight division. There’s a lot of big names out there for me to go and fight. Golovkin is the end goal, and anyone with a World Title. I’m coming, they’re all on the radar.”

Bivol Defends Light Heavyweight Title with Decision over Richards

Dmitry Bivol defended the WBA Light Heavyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Craig Rchards.

Bivol was 234 of 609 punches; Richards was just 76 of 756 punches.

Bivol, 174.2 lbs of Saint Petersburg, RUS won by score of 118-110, 115-114 and 115-113 and is now 18-0. Richards, 174.6 lbs of Crystal Palace, ENG is 16-2-1.

“I’m not happy but I’m okay,” Bivol told Matchroom. “It was a long rest for me and I went into the ring after one and a half years. It’s fine. My opponent was a good fighter, really good. He’s smart and he thinks. He was thinking for the whole fight.

“It’s okay. I was feeling that I’d won. I gave him a couple of rounds for recovery. I landed more clean punches. I respect him and I respected him before the fight. I think he can make problems for all fighters because of his style.

“He moved a lot. Fighters who move a lot and have good speed are really hard. He is a good fighter, but I have more weapons in my arsenal. I’m glad I have had another defence. Of course, I want unification fights. I still want them. I haven’t had a chance to fight for another belt, this is why I defend my belt.

“I’d like to fight for another belt, it would be a good challenge for me. I believe I can become the Undisputed World Champion one day, this is why I train, that’s why I have a good team. I believe one day I will be if I train hard. Thanks to everyone who supports me and watched this fight.”

Straffon stops Tennyson in 1st

Jovanni Straffon stopped James Tennyson in round one of a scheduled 12-round lightweight battle.

Straffon landed a booming right that put Tennyson on the canvas. Tennyson got to his feet but he was butchered against the ropes, and the fight was stopped at 2:10.

Straffon, 133.2 lbs of Mexico City is now 24-3 with 17 knockouts. Tennyson, ,134.7 lbs of Belfast, NI is 28-4.

“I dreamed about this several years ago,” Straffon told Matchroom. “I know I was up against everything. I knew he was a very strong fighter. He called himself ‘The Assassin’, but he was assassinated. He punches hard, but nothing punches harder than life.

“It has been a very good year for Mexican boxing. There has been lots of surprises and upsets. I’m not really surprised about what happened. I have been well prepared for a year. I knew I was the big underdog but now I’m the winner.

“I would really like the opportunity to work with Eddie Hearn. I would like to thank my manager and promoter. I hope some really good things are coming my way. I believe I just won an opportunity to get some of the tough and big names out there. Don’t give up on anything, always keep on dreaming because dreams do come true.”

Scott Fitzgerald stopped Gregory Trenel in round three of their scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Fitzgerald landed a barrage of punches on the ropes, and the fight was stopped by referee Steve Gray at 2:43

Fitzgerald, 169.4 lbs of Preston, ENG is 15-0 with 10 knockouts.  Trenel, 166.2 lbs of Dainville, FRA is 13-7-2.

Johnny Fisher stopped Phil Williams in round three of a scheduled four-round heavyweight bout.

Fisher dominated and the fight was stopped at 1:40 of round three.

Fisher, 254.7 lbs of Romford, ENG is 2-o with two knockouts. Williams, 268.7

“I thought it was brilliant to get out on such short notice,” Fisher told Matchroom. “Credit to Sam Jones and Eddie Hearn for getting the fight there for me. Phil Williams is an awkward and tough opponent; he’s only been stopped four or five times in 30 bouts. Awkward fight, but I got him out of there and I showed I could go three rounds and keep a high pace.

“I’m trying to find the balance between having that killer instinct and sitting behind my boxing. Sometimes in there you probably get caught between the two. As I progress, I’ll be able to use that killer instinct more effectively. It was an awkward fight, but I showed that I’ve got the strength and the power to stop people. I stopped him in the third round. We’ll go against for the next one as soon as we can. 

“If you stay ready, you’ll get opportunities, especially at Matchroom and with S-JAM Boxing. I showed I can turn up and get the job done. I’m very grounded. I played rugby for a long time. That teaches you a lot of discipline. I’ve got family and a support network who believe in me. They always tell me the truth as well, and I’ll always be truthful about my own performances.

“It’s all systems go, ready for the next one. I’ve got to get that jab off, because in the gym it’s coming off lovely. When you get under them lights, you can have a bit of eagerness. I’ve only had four amateur senior fights and I’ve got a long way to go in the professional ranks.”

Campbell Hatton won a four-round decision Levi Dunn in a lightweight fight..

Hatton, 135.9 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 2-0. Dunn, 134.5 lbs of Prestwich, ENG is 0-5.

“I could tell during the whole build up that I’d be a lot better in this fight,” Hatton told Matchroom. “I’ve just been so much more relaxed. It’s night and day. I’ve not watched it back yet, but I think I did show a lot smarter boxing and a bit more composure. 

“There’s still room for improvement but I’m buzzing with it. I’ve not had probably 10% of what I had to do last time. I’m grateful for it. I think I was hurting him a bit more this time. In a spar, it isn’t about taking them out is it. He was doing a lot of holding. He’s a tough kid and he’s done the job that he was here to do. I think I would have got him out of there if there was a bit less holding.

“My heroes have boxed here, so it’s a box ticked for me. It was weird walking down the ramp with no crowd. I can’t wait to do it again here when it’s packed. It’s not new to me now, I’ve got a bit more used to it. I’ll be straight back in the gym ready to go again. It’s all learning, and by keeping busy, I think I’ll be flying soon.”

London, UK (30 April 2021) Former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters will be backing old foe Craig Richards in his WBA World title challenge against Dmitry Bivol tomorrow night.

Pitters lost his British title to Richards last December when ahead on the judges’ scorecards he was stopped in the ninth round by the hard-hitting Londoner, but he wants to see his rival win the title which could set up future rematch between the pair.

‘Big Shak’ begins his comeback on Saturday 22nd May at the Coventry Skydome Arena, exclusively live and free on Channel 5, when he takes on Bradford’s Jermaine Springer in an eight-rounder on the undercard of the big showdown between Sam Eggington and Carlos Molina for the WBC Silver Middleweight Championship.

He said, “Anything can happen in boxing and he’s got a good chance tomorrow night. He’s stepped up to face Bivol who’s unbeaten and won the world title in just his seventh fight and he can punch. I’ve spoken to Richards since our fight and we’re cool, I wished him all the best and it’s great for British boxing if he wins.”

The 31-year-old from Birmingham is hungry to return to the ring and do a good job on Springer and then push his case for a championship title opportunity.

He added, “I’d like the rematch with Richards, but I’m not going to chase it, I’m going to focus on my own career and keep winning and get the belts coming in and then in time I’m sure we’ll meet again.”

“I’ve been working hard in the gym since the Richards fight with my trainer Jon Pegg and we’ve been focusing on ring generalship and aggression so you’ll be seeing a more attacking Shakan Pitters on his return,”

“I’m looking for a more clinical performance and do what I do best and show the skills and make a real statement.”

Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan, Everlast and King Carlos Promotions, Eggington v Molina will headline the exciting nine-fight card exclusively live and free-to-air across the UK and Ireland on Channel 5.

Main event features Birmingham warrior Sam Eggington (29-7-0, 17 KO’s) against Mexico’s hard-as-nails Carlos Molina (37-11-2, 12 KO’s) for the Vacant WBC Silver Middleweight Championship. Chief support features a cracking showdown between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin (11-1-1, 2 KO’s) and Dumbarton’s Martin Harkin (13-1-0, 5 KO’s) in an Eliminator for the British Welterweight Championship (Subject to BBBofC approval).

Also on the card, Coventry sensation River Wilson-Bent (8-0-0, 4 KO’s) makes the first defence of his Midlands Area Middleweight title against Derby’s George Farrell (5-0-0, 1 KO). Former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters (14-1-0, 4 KO’s) has his first back against Bradford’s Jermaine Springer (7-2-0, 1 KO) in an eight-rounder since losing his title to Craig Richards last December. County Monaghan super-lightweight dynamo Stephen ‘The Hitman’ McKenna (7-0-0, 7 KO’s) features in a six-rounder, but the undefeated red-hot 24-year-old prospect has not needed to go the distance yet with all his fights ending inside. Birmingham middleweight bombshell Idris ‘The Bodybreaker’ Virgo (9-0-1, 1 KO) goes in over six-rounds. Sevenoaks all-action super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. (5-1-1) is in a six-rounder against Warminster’s Paul Cummings. Irish super-welterweight ace Brett McGinty (1-0) follows up his thrilling pro debut last December when he features in a four-rounder against Birmingham’s Josh Hodgins. Brighton heavyweight talent Tommy Welch (1-0-0, 1 KO), son of the former British, Commonwealth and World Heavyweight title challenger Scott, follow’s up his explosive debut last December when he stopped Matt Gordon in the second round and features in a four-round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Craig Richards says all of the pressure is on Dmitry Bivol ahead of their clash for the WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title this Saturday May 1 at the AO Arena, Manchester, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all markets excluding the UK, Ireland, China, New Zealand and Samoa.

Richards (16-1-1, 9 KOs) delivered a Fight of the Year contender last time out in December against fierce rival Shakan Pitters as he stopped the Birmingham man in nine rounds to capture the British Light-Heavyweight crown.

Ranked at number 5 in the world with the WBA and number 7 with the IBF, ‘Spider’ earned his shot at world honours by remaining undefeated since his sole career loss against former World Title challenger Frank Buglioni in October 2017.

The Crystal Palace fighter, 30, comes into this weekend’s showdown with Russia’s long-reigning champion Bivol as a huge underdog and is all too aware of the huge task at hand, but feels he brings something to the table that none of Bivol’s previous 17 opponents possessed. 

“You come into boxing to become a World Champion – that’s always the goal,” said Richards. “I couldn’t be any happier that I have the opportunity to do that on Saturday. I’ve been fortunate to have these opportunities to push my career forwards. Getting the WBA Continental, getting myself in the world rankings. I’ve been in the top 10 with the WBA for two years now. I’m ranked a number 5 with the WBA and I’m in the top ten with the IBF as well. 

“I’ve boxed on a lot of big stages already. I’ve boxed unbeaten fighters, I’ve had pressure fights, 50-50 fights and underdog fights. I’ve really been under pressure in my career constantly. All of those experiences have pushed me and got me prepared for this moment. I believe that every step gets your prepared for the next one. I’ve taken the right steps. Now it’s another step. I’m the underdog again. I’ve had to do things the hard way to get myself into this position. 

“I know this guy is no joke. I’ve made sure I’m prepared in all areas. He’s a good fighter. He likes to be busy at times. He has decent footwork. There’s a couple of good names on his record. I don’t believe he’s boxed someone who brings the stuff I bring to the ring. I think he’s boxed a lot of different types of styles. I think my style is slightly different and I don’t think he’s crossed that yet. 

“The bigger the challenge, the more exciting it is for me. I always get up for a challenge. Every time I’m in a big Title fight when I’m the underdog, I go out there and I get the job done. I haven’t had to go through the gears yet. This is the sort of fight that will get the best out of me. I’ll show everyone what I’m really about. All I think about is that first bell. That’ the moment I really can’t wait for.

“There’s no pressure on me, there’s pressure on him. He’s the World Champion. He’s meant to be this big star. He’s meant to be this super champion from Russia. He’s going to want to go out there and look tremendous. He’ll want to make a statement, so there’s going to be pressure on him to go out there and perform. The pressure is on him, but I’m putting pressure on myself because I want to make sure I get that Title and prove everyone wrong.”

Bivol vs. Richards is part of a huge night of action in Manchester, Derek Chisora (32-10, 23 KOs) and Joseph Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) collide in a huge Heavyweight clash, Irish star Katie Taylor (17-0, 6 KOs) defends her Undisputed Lightweight crown against former amateur rival Natasha Jonas (9-1-1, 7 KOs), Chris Eubank Jr (29-2, 22 KOs) returns against Marcus Morrison (23-3, 16 KOs), Belfast’s James Tennyson (28-3, 24 KOs) faces Mexico’s JovanniStraffon (23-3-1, 16 KOs) for the IBO Lightweight World Title, Preston Super-Welterweight Scott Fitzgerald (14-0, 9 KOs) makes his long awaited return and Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (1-0) fights in his home city for the first time as a pro. 

Derek Chisora and Joseph Parker will collide in a huge Heavyweight clash on a blockbuster night of action that sees Irish star Katie Taylor defend her Undisputed Lightweight crown against former amateur rival Natasha Jonas and undefeated WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol put his Title on the line against Craig Richards, as well as the return of Chris Eubank Jr, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all markets excluding the UK, Ireland, China, New Zealand and Samoa.

Former World Title challenger Chisora (32-10, 23 KOs) was last seen pushing Ukraine’s pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk all of the way in their 12-round battle for the WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title at The SSE Arena, Wembley last October, and the fan favourite is chomping at the bit for his next challenge.

A meeting between the pair scheduled for October 2019 fell through at three-and-a-half weeks’ notice when Parker’s team revealed he was suffering from the aftereffects of a spider bite. Chisora, who was unconvinced with Team Parker’s reasons for pulling out in 2019, has labelled Parker a ‘chicken’ in recent weeks and says he has unfinished business with the Heavyweight contender. 

Former WBO World Champion Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) is fresh off a hard-fought 12-round decision over long-time amateur nemesis Junior Fa at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand last month that settled an 11-year old rivalry with his compatriot, a win that he hopes will kickstart his route back to the top of the Heavyweight division. 

Ranked at No.3 with the WBO, New Zealand’s Parker is well known on these shores having defended his WBO Title against Hughie Fury at Manchester Arena in September 2017, before taking unified ruler Anthony Joshua the distance at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff in March 2018. His last appearance in the UK came against Dillian Whyte in a dramatic points loss in July 2018.

“We’ve been here before, in 2019 I flew to Vegas to film the ‘Face To Face’ with Parker, I called Haye as soon as I left and told him, ‘This guy isn’t going to get in the ring with me’, I could see the fear in his eyes,” said Chisora. “Now, second time around I hope he fights, I’m looking forward to the fight, I cannot wait to get back in the ring! I love fighting, it is what I love the most. Good luck to Joseph Parker and his new team, we shall see you for WAR on May 1^st!”

“I’m excited to start this new chapter in my career with a new coach and some fresh ideas,” said Parker. “I’ve settled in and Andy and I are bonding well. Chisora and I have unfinished business and inside the ring one of us will get the job done. I am well aware that a win on British soil and on world-wide television will put me in pole position whereas a loss will be catastrophic.  I am more than up for the challenge. Bring it on Del Boy.”

Taylor (17-0, 6 KOs) defeated Jonas (9-1-1, 7 KOs) in the quarter-final stages of the London 2012 Olympic Games on route to capturing Ireland’s first gold medal of the summer. The pair will meet again nearly ten years down the line with Taylor’s WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles on the line. 

Since their first meeting in the amateurs, Taylor has gone on to cement herself as the best female fighter on the planet by winning World Titles in the Lightweight and Super-Lightweight divisions and remaining undefeated in all 17 of her professional contests. ‘KT’ was last seen outclassing her WBA Mandatory Challenger Miriam Gutierrez with a masterful display in November. 

‘Miss GB’ came agonisingly close to winning her first World Title at the age of 36 last summer when she battled to a thrilling draw with WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight Champion Terri Harper at Matchroom Fight Camp. It was the first time that two British women had competed against each other for a Word Title, and the all-action fight more than lived up to the occasion. 

“Natasha proved in her last fight that she is still performing at the highest level so it’s a great challenge for me and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Taylor. “It’s a fight that people have been asking for and those are the type of fights you want to be part of.

“People still talk about our fight in the 2012 Olympics and I think that proved to be a real eye opener for people in terms of what women’s boxing is all about. I’m expecting another tough fight on May 1^st and I’m looking forward to successfully defending my Titles.”

“I’m really excited about getting the fight, I made a lot of noise about not wanting to go down in level or class after establishing myself on the world stage in my last fight,” said Jonas. “I know Katie is a different type of animal to Terri Harper, but I believe every time I’m asked to step up, I do. I said I wanted to be a champion and anybody at 130 to 140 was in my sights, I know I’m a world class boxer and I can win a World Title. 

“From the minute Eddie signed me this fight has been on the cards. Me and Katie had a great story from the Olympics, and we have both been pioneers in our own way. I’m glad that it’s happening and it’s a great fight for women’s boxing and for British and Irish boxing.”

Russia’s Bivol (17-0, 11 KOs) is regarded as one of the best technical boxers in the sport, mixing his dazzling skills with KO power. The 30-year-old was elevated to full WBA 175lbs World Champion from interim champion ahead of his 12th pro fight with Trent Broadhurst in Monte Carlo in November 2017 and celebrated with a devasting one-punch KO in the first round.  Bivol has subsequently defended his crown five times, but has been away from the ring since October 2019 when he widely outpointed Lenin Castillo at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Richards (16-1-1, 9 KOs) delivered a Fight of the Year contender last time out in December against fierce rival Shakan Pitters as he stopped the Birmingham man in nine rounds to earn the British Light-Heavyweight crown. ‘Spider’ is ranked at No.8 in the WBA world rankings and has earned his shot by remaining undefeated since sole career loss against former World Title challenger Frank Buglioni in October 2017.

“I have been out of the ring for a year and a half and I have sorely missed boxing,” said Bivol. “I can’t wait to step through the ropes for my next fight on May 1^st. I have always wanted to fight in the UK and I’m happy to tick that box. Craig Richards is a fast and technical boxer and I’m expecting a great fight as I make another defence of my World Title.”

“I feel good and I feel very confident,” said Richards. “I know that he’s renowned as one of the best fighters out there, but I just believe that I’ve got the tools to beat him and I’m very confident in my abilities. I know I’ve got power as well, and I’ve got a very good chin. We’ve been planning for everything and anything.

“We know he’s been operating at world level for a long time and can bring different things to the table. I raise the level of my performance against my better opponents. The bigger the fight the better I perform. A fight like Bivol will allow me to go through my gears to show what I’m really about.”

Having previously campaigned at Super-Middleweight, Eubank Jr (29-2, 22 KOs) returned to the Middleweight division to claim the WBA Interim Middleweight World Title for the second time with a TKO win over former World Title challenger in December 2019, while making his US debut at the Barclays Centre in New York. In what will be his first fight back in the UK in over two years, the Brighton man faces Manchester’s Marcus Morrison (23-3, 16 KOs), who is enjoying a seven-fight winning streak that stretches back to June 2018.

“This is a good fight for me,” said Eubank Jr.  “Since signing with Sauerland my camp has been firing on all cylinders, I’ve been training with Roy in Miami and focussing on improving my game. I have the absolute best people around me, I have everything I need to push on to that next level and dominate the Middleweight scene.

“People have a lot to say about me and my career. There’s talks about why fights haven’t happened previously, but all I’ve been doing is focussing on number one, training hard and making sure I’m always ready. I’m now in the best place I can be and I’m ready to take what is mine.”

“I’m well aware that this is a massive opportunity and fight for me and my career,” said Morrison. “I got into boxing at the age of 7, and these are the type of fights I’ve always wanted to be involved in. Chris is a very good fighter, and I know what he brings to the table. I honestly believe the best version of me is still to be seen, and I look forward to showing it on the night. I can’t afford to not leave everything in there on May 1.”

“This is one of the strongest shows we’ve promoted and there is still even more to come,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Chisora vs. Parker is a brilliant style match up that has been brewing for years and Taylor vs. Jonas is one of the biggest fights in women’s boxing. The Eubanks are always box office and it’s a massive chance for Marcus Morrison after his brilliant win in Italy. Craig Richards goes for World Title glory against the brilliant Russian Dmitry Bivol and there are further announcements to follow. Buckle up and enjoy this one!”

“WAR Chisora realises this is a massive opportunity to gate-crash the Heavyweight division,” said David Haye of Hayemaker Promotions. “He has come close, in his last battle against unified Cruiserweight World Champion and No.1 ranked Heavyweight Usyk, two of the judges’ score cards had it 7 rounds to 5 –  winning just one more round would have captured a draw and Derek would have retained his WBO International Title that night. Since, he has been working, living the life of a professional. Derek doesn’t simply want to beat Joseph Parker, he wants to make a statement to the world. This is his time.”

“There’s definitely unfinished business between Parker and Chisora,” said David Higgins, Founder and Director of DUCO Events. “I think the fight will be a real fan pleaser. It could be the Heavyweight Fight of the Year. You’ve got Chisora who likes to stand and trade and come forward, and then you’ve got Parker who has the speed and the pedigree. This fight has got a bit of history and it has been building for a while. It’s fantastic that it’s finally happening. This is a proper 50-50 matchup where the winner could go on to a World Title shot and the loser will go to the scrapheap. Credit to both Parker and Chisora for putting it all on the line.”

Redditch, UK (19 December 2020) Promoter Mick Hennessy closed the year last night with an exciting all-action show full of drama and knockouts from the Fly By Night TV studio in Redditch, Worcestershire, to viewers live on Channel 5 in the UK and via a live stream available around the world.

6 x 3 Rounds Middleweight Contest
Brett McGinty WPTS6 (59-56) Jan Ardon
Hennessy’s new signing Brett McGinty made a successful start to his pro career with a points win over the tough Czech born and Manchester based Jan Ardon. The Monaghan talent went in over six rounds instead of the usual four for a pro-debutant. Ardon was a late replacement and a heavier opponent and a big test for someones debut, but McGinty worked well to the head and body and showed his class. He was caught in the fourth and momentarily stunned but got through it and had to fight hard in the last two rounds to get a great win on is debut.

6 x 3 Rounds Middleweight Contest
Idris Virgo WPTS6 (60-54) Kearon Thomas
Unbeaten Birmingham middleweight maintained his unbeaten record with a 60-54 points victory over Walsall’s Kearon Thomas. Virgo hurt Thomas with a good body shot in the second round but Thomas managed to recover and get through it with Virgo looking to finish him off. In the fifth Virgo landed a low blow that had Thomas take some time to recover from. Virgo kept up the attack until the end to get his hand raised and his did his customary bow to the cameras.

6 x 3 Rounds Super Super-Lightweight Contest
Stephen McKenna WTKO3 (Time: 0:36) Des Newton
Irish super-lightweight ace Stephen McKenna ended his year with a knockout performance, flattening Bere Alston’s experienced Des Newton in the third round. McKenna started fast and hard throwing big bombs to head and body as he looked to get the tough Newton out early until he landed a big right hand in the third round. The undefeated Monahan Hitman took his record to a perfect 7-0 with 7 knockouts and now looks ahead to a big year in 2021 with the world’s eyes on the young talent as he progresses.

6 x 3 Rounds Super-Flyweight Contest
Sammy Cantwell LTKO6 (Time: 0:49) Stephen Jackson
In an entertaining hard fought contest, super-flyweight Sammy Cantwell, son of the popular 90s British Flyweight Champion and four-time World Title Challenger, Mickey, was stopped in the final round by Manchester’s pro-debutant Stephen Jackson. Cantwell was due to fight Ricky Little for the Southern Area title, but Little withdrew earlier in the week due to medical reasons (non-COVID) with Jackson coming in at late notice. Cantwell fought well considering he had been out of the ring for two years and at times he hurt Jackson. It was a gutsy and gritty performance from Cantwell, with Jackson also landing eye catching punches and hard combinations. In the sixth Jackson landed a big right hand and hurt Cantwell with more shots before the referee halted the action.

10 x 3 Rounds Midlands Area Middleweight Title
River Wilson Bent WKO3 (Time: 1:42) Troy Coleman
In the most explosive knockout of the night and certainly a contender for KO of the year, Coventry’s River Wilson Bent landed a huge right hand in the third round that had Burntwood’s Coleman out before he hit the canvas. Coleman tried bravely to get to his feet, but the referee waved it off at the count of ten. Unbeaten Bent claimed the Midlands Area Middleweight title and marked himself out as a big-hitting contender in the division.

12 x 3 British Light Heavyweight Title
Shakan Pitters LTKO9 (Time: 2:42) Craig Richards
In the main event, fierce light-heavyweight rival Shakan Pitters and Craig Richards delivered an exciting fight to end the year. Pitters, making the first defence of his British title that he won against Chad Sugden in August, was stopped in the ninth round in a real humdinger of a battle that was swinging in momentum. Pitters started the fight well, controlling with his long jab and keeping Crystal Palace’s Richards at a distance, but in the fourth round Richards landed a big right that rocked Pitters and followed that with a right hook that floored the Birmingham man. Getting up at three, Pitters went on the move with Richards moving in to try and find a shot to finish him off, but he survived the round. Re-establishing himself, Pitters then got back to work in the fifth and landed a good right hand at the end of the sixth. In the seventh and eighth, both landed good shots on each other with the fight very tight on points, but in the ninth Richards stepped it up and landed a big right hook to drop Pitters on the ropes. With Pitters hurt, Richards landed a left hook that floored him heavily, bravely up at the count of seven he was still on shaky legs and the referee Victor Loughlin called it off. Pitters will now take time to recover over the Christmas period and plot his route back next year.

*Sevenoaks middleweight Michael Hennessy Jr. had to withdraw from his fight against Kevin McCauley just before the contest during the warm up after damaging his left hand on the pads. Hennessy hurt it in his fight last week against Dale Arrowsmith and had been receiving physiotherapy treatment during the week which left him feeling good to fight. but when he started hitting the pads heavily the hand injured again. His team felt it would be in his best interest to withdraw.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Redditch, UK (18 December 2020) Promoter Mick Hennessy has outlined the methods boxing fans in the UK, Ireland and around the world can view tonight’s big fight card.

For the UK & Ireland use: https://youtu.be/5TgV31H0Hj8

For around the world use the undercard link: https://youtu.be/5TgV31H0Hj8

For main event Pitters v Richards use link: https://youtu.be/oJCceNImvro
The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna who takes on Plymouth’s Des Newton; Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo takes on Walsall Kearon Thomas; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. faces Stourbridge’s Kevin McCauley; Bexleyheath super flyweight Sammy Cantwell takes on Manchester’s Stephen Jackson* and red hot Irish prospect Brett McGinty from County Donegal makes his long awaited professional debut against Jan Ardon.

*Stephen Jackson replaces Ricky Little who withdrew due to medial reasons (non-Covid) with the fight now a six-round contest, not for the Southern Area Super-Flyweight title.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Redditch, UK (17 December 2020) Promoter Mick Hennessy is delighted to confirm that all the boxers’ featuring on his final event of the year tomorrow night (Friday 18 December) at the Fly By Nite TV studio in Redditch have all passed their COVID-19 tests and are cleared to fight.

Since the recommencement of boxing shows behind closed doors in August, Hennessy will now have successfully staged four TV studio shows and due to the strict shielding policies enforced in the build up, is proud that none of the boxers featuring on any of his shows have tested positive COVID-19.

The boxers’ weighed in today, with the main event, the British Light-Heavyweight Championship between Champion Shakan Pitters and Challenger Craig Richards, both coming in just under the 12st 7lb (175lbs) limit before they collide tomorrow night, exclusively LIVE and FREE on Channel 5 in the UK.

Pitters, who weighed 12st 6lb 2oz (174lb 2oz), said, “I’m ready to rock and roll. I hit the weight easy and feel good and strong. Now it’s just ticking down until tomorrow and Richards will find out he’s out of his depth for all the rubbish he’s been talking.”

Richards, who came in at 12st 6lb 4oz (174lb 4oz), said, “That’s done and I’m ready to go. Tomorrow can’t come soon enough. This isn’t going the distance.”

All the weights from today’s weigh-in at the Holiday Inn, Redditch

6 x 3 Rounds Middleweight Contest
Idris Virgo 11st 9lb 12oz (163lb 12oz)
vs.
Kearon Thomas 11st 11lb 3oz (165lb 3oz)

6 x 3 Rounds Super Lightweight Contest
Stephen McKenna 10st 9lb 8oz (149lb 8oz)
vs.
Des Newton 10st 10lb 4oz (150lb 4oz)

6 x 3 Rounds Light Middleweight Contest
Michael Hennessy Jr 11st 2lb 10oz (156lb 10oz)
vs.
Kevin McCauley 11st 7lb 12oz (161lb 12oz)

Vacant Midlands Area Middleweight Championship
10 x 3 Rounds Contest at 11st 6lb (160lb)
River Bent 11st 5lb 4oz (159lb 4oz)
vs.
Troy Coleman 11st 5lb 12oz (159lb 12oz)

British Light Heavyweight Championship
12 x 3 Rounds at 12st 7lb (175lb)
Shakan Pitters 12st 6lb 2oz (174lb 2oz)
vs.
Craig Richards 12st 6lb 4oz (174lb 4oz)

Weighing in tomorrow:

6 x 3 Rounds Middleweight Contest
Brett McGinty vs Jan Ardon

6 x 3 Rounds Super-Flyweight Contest
Sammy Cantwell vs Stephen Jackson

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna who takes on Plymouth’s Des Newton; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr.; Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo takes on Walsall Kearon Thomas; Bexleyheath super-flyweight Sammy Cantwell and red hot Irish prospect Brett McGinty from County Donegal makes his long awaited professional debut.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (16 December 2020) British Light-Heavyweight title challenger Craig Richards aims to close the final domestic boxing show of the year with a knockout of Champion Shakan Pitters and claim the Lonsdale belt.

Richards and Pitters collide this Friday night at the Fly By Nite TV studio in Redditch, exclusively LIVE and FREE in the UK on Channel 5.

With the recent shock defeats of heavyweight Daniel Dubois and light-heavyweight Anthony Yarde to Joe Joyce and Lyndon Arthur, respectively, the Crystal Palace hotshot says it will not be an upset when he defeats the unbeaten Birmingham stylist.“I don’t believe it will be an upset when I beat Pitters. I’m a better fighter than him, I’ve boxed at a higher level and I’m just going out to get the job done,” Said Richards.

“I’ve had the right preparation and I’m ready to get the job done. I just to go out and show my abilities and what I’m capable of,”

“I’ve found sparring partner similar to his stature and attributes so I’ve been quite fortunate. I’ve had loads of differing sparring partners like Lawrence Okolie and Mark Williams, cruiserweights to tall light-heavyweights.”

“First thing I’m thinking about is December 18, before I think of anything else, so that’s my main focus. I’ve been thriving on this and looking forward to it for a long time,”

“It’s the fight I’ve been waiting for to really get the performance out of myself and it will be a win by KO or just the win.”

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna who takes on Plymouth’s Des Newton; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo takes on Walsall Kearon Thomas.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (16 December 2020) British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters and challenger Craig Richards checked into their fight hotel in Redditch today with their respective training teams to undertake the mandatory COVID-19 test.

Birmingham’s Pitters put his title on the line in his first defence against London rival Richards this Friday (18 December) at the Fly By Nite TV studio, exclusively LIVE and FREE on Channel 5 in the UK.

After taking the COVID-19 test, both fighters and teams headed to their rooms to quarantine and await the vital all-clear results.

Hennessy Sports has again appointed the world leading genetics testing and digital health testing company Prenetics to undertake the integrated testing. Prenetics have successfully provided their services to the Premier League’s ‘Project Restart’ and The England and Wales Cricket Board.

Other boxers featuring on the undercard are River Bent, Troy Coleman, Sammy Cantwell, Ricky Little, Stephen McKenna, Michael Hennessy Jr., Idris Virgo and their opponents also took the mandatory test before quarantining in their hotel rooms.

Promoter Mick Hennessy applied stricter shielding measures for his boxers’ featuring on the event last Friday (11 December) to minimised their exposure to the coronavirus to ensure the boxers’ would be able to feature on this Friday’s show.

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna who takes on Birmingham’s Des Newton; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo takes on Walsall Kearon Thomas.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (15 December 2020) British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters hasn’t taken challenger Craig Richards for granted after seeing recent high profile defeats involving Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois.

Undefeated Pitters makes the first defence of the Lonsdale belt against Londoner Richards this Friday (18 December) at the Fly By Nite TV Studio in Redditch, live and free in the UK on Channel 5.

Earlier this month Yarde was turned over by Lyndon Arthur to win the Commonwealth and WBO Intercontinental 175lb titles and heavyweight Dubois lost to bookies’ underdog Joe Joyce in their British, Commonwealth and European title scrap.

The Birmingham ace won the British title in a tough twelve round battle against Chad Sugden and isn’t prepared to let the titles go without a fight and realises the threat Richards presents.

“Those results show how tough this sport is to hold onto the titles and to take nothing for granted,” Said Pitters.

“Richards is a dangerous challenger and I’ve not looked beyond this fight against him. Everything has been focused on this fight only and retaining my title in my first defence,”

“Whilst they were upsets, I wasn’t completely surprised by the Yarde and Dubois loses. Arthur is a top quality fighter and vastly underrated, whilst Joyce was a class former Olympian and I couldn’t understand why he was installed as the underdog by the bookmakers,”

“Knowing that Richards wants to rip the title from me, take away my career, future earnings and being able to feed my family is all the motivation in the World I need to win and keep hold of this title.”

The Pitters-Richard showdown has been a long time coming. They were due to meet for the British title in March this year after promoter Mick Hennessy won the purse bid, but Richards withdrew with a viral infection and Sugden stepped in to replace him – with Hennessy giving Richards the first shot at the winner.

Pitters v Sugden was then postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and the ensuing national lockdown, but then with the recommencement of sport behind closed doors they finally clashed in August and Pitters won widely on the scorecards with a superb boxing display.

Hennessy then delivered on his word and gave Richards his chance with the bout set for November 14, but then Pitters suffered an injury in training and the fight was rescheduled for this Friday.

Despite the turbulent year, Pitters aims to end they year on a high by beating Richards and move into a positive 2021.

He added, “This time last year nobody could have predicted the way this year has turned out. Coronavirus has turned the World upside down and caused so much disruption and pain to everything we took for granted in our everyday lives,”

“I think one of the biggest factors in fighting the pandemic is the human fighting spirit, not giving in and coming together to battle the disease and we are starting to turn the war more in our favour with the vaccine roll out,”

“Through it all, I’ve kept the faith, kept me and family safe and just believed that things would eventually start get back to normal. Whilst we’ve still got a long way to go, I’m a positive believer and things will change next year,”

“I’ve not let the coronavirus derail me and I certainly won’t let Craig Richards on Friday night.”

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna who takes on Birmingham’s Des Newton; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo takes on Walsall Kearon Thomas.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (2 December 2020) Love Island star Nathan Massey is backing friend and personal trainer Sammy Cantwell to win the Southern Area Super Flyweight title fight against Ricky Little on Saturday 18th December on the undercard of the Shakan Pitters-Craig Richards British Light-Heavyweight title showdown.

Cantwell puts Massey, winner of the hit reality show in 2016, through brutal training session at the Cantwell Boxing Gym in Eltham so he’s in good shape to the delight of his near 1 million followers on Instagram.

Massey, a former amateur boxer, said, “I’m a massive boxing fan and love the sport. It’s the best training out there to get fit, toned and for mental health and Sammy has done a great job working on me,”

“I know what he puts me through in training is only a quarter of what he does himself everyday ahead of his title fight and his focus, commitment and determination is really unbelievable to see, I know he can win on the night.”

With a raft of former Love Island stars in pro boxing with the likes of Jack Fincham, Tommy Fury and Idris Virgo – who features on the Cantwell-Little undercard – Massey has no desire to follow in their pro footsteps.

“I did a little amateur boxing when I was younger and had a charity fight a couple of years ago, but there’s no way I’d want to get into that pro ring,”

“Well, if a promoter offered me an extremely obscene amount of money to turn pro then I’d have to give it some serious thought , but with that unlikely, I’m very happy to leave it to Sammy and the others to get on with it!”

Cantwell challenges for his first title and aims to emulate father Mickey, the popular 90s British Flyweight Champion and four-time World Title Challenger, with a victory over Little.

He said, “I’d like to give Love Island a go, I’ve still got the boy looks and the bod, but my fiancé wouldn’t be too impressed with that!”

“Nathan and the rest of them have lived the life in that sunny villa, compared to me getting punched and battered in a sweaty old gym every day,”

“It’s the glory and pride to lift my first title that makes the sacrifice all worthwhile though. I saw my dad go through it and it’s motivating me to beat Little.”

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (26 November 2020) It’s fair to say that leading light-heavyweights Craig ‘Spider’ Richards and Shakan Pitters don’t like each other, don’t rate each other!

Since first paired to punch it out for the British title earlier this year, the bitter rivals have been sniping at each other like a couple of famished pit bulls during a fiery build-up to their Channel 5 televised collision at the Fly By Nite Rehearsal Studios, Redditch, on Friday 18th December.

Latterly, 6ft 6in Midland man Pitters, undefeated in 14 starts, has publicly slaughtered his south London nemesis as a deluded, puffed up super-middle who is easily frustrated and crumbles under pressure when cast in the spotlight.

The ‘Spider’ man – thus named after a vanquished victim commented that he appeared to possess more than two arms! – unsurprisingly begs to differ.

‘I’d known Shakan for a while and everything was always cool. Then, from nowhere, as we both progressed, Shak started bad mouthing me on social, saying weird stuff that I was scared, ducking him….please!’ mocks the 30 year old Richards whose only reverse in 17 was a short-notice 12 round points loss to then British champ Frank Buglioni on an Anthony Joshua undercard at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium in October 2017.

‘Shakan’s a clown. I saw him dropped by a real journeyman (Czech Jiri Svacina) earlier in his career. And he’s not dangerous, ain’t stopped anyone who wasn’t stopped about 20 times previously.

‘I don’t really care about him. Listen, in the past, they’ve all called me out. They all say a lot of things before the bell rings. Jake Ball was taller. He’d been at Team GB. No way could I outbox him. He had quicker hands, quicker feet……he was smashed in three!’

‘After I expose Pitters, he’ll have to go back to the drawing board just like all the others did. Afterwards, they all say: ‘I didn’t realise you were so strong, didn’t know you hit so hard.’ Shak’s in for a serious reality check.

‘Look, he’s ‘half’ decent. Half. He relies on his height and keeps running but there’s a lot of flaws. Everything he does is simple, basic, nothing I’ve not seen or faced before. There’s nothing unique about him. I’ve tall sparring partners who are exactly the same.

‘Him coming down from cruiser and me coming up from super-middle will work against him. I’m the more NATURAL light-heavy. I’ll have more energy. Besides, I mostly spar decent cruisers and always walk them down.’

To compensate for conceding physical advantages and home court, cruncher Craig (eight stoppage wins), holds a sizeable sway in ring experience over the reigning champion who acquired his crown with clear win over Newark’s Chad Sugden in August.

Though Richards’ CV lists just three extra fights, he has 24 more pro rounds on his slate. While Pitters has passed round six just twice, rugged Richards has the security of having completed the 12 round championship trip against both Buglioni and New Cross nugget Andre Sterling (dumped and decisioned in an eliminator), plus a further 10 in an early career Southern Area 12st win over Alan Higgins.

‘Shakan was hurt several times during his English title win with Dec Spelman. Unlike Pitters, I’ve been an underdog. I’ve been out of my depth. There’s a lot he’s still not been through. I know how to handle a crisis. He doesn’t,’ warns Richards.

‘I seriously don’t like six or eight round fights. Tens and 12s suit me more cos I can systematically break a fight down, control and maintain a pace that others can’t match. I finish stronger than I start, both in the gym and on fight night.’

And Richards openly scoffs at the suggestion that he caved under the weight of expectation, firstly against Buglioni, then again when held to an eight-round tie by Sugden in his title tune-up last December.

‘Look, I’ve been the co-main event before 10,000 at the O2 and won. I’ve boxed on AJ undercards, Golovkin undercards. Big fights, real pressure. Been there, done it,’ states Richards.

When judgement day arrives, the ‘Spider’ man predicts Pitters will suffer a severe case of arachnophobia; tangled in his web, then ruthlessly devoured.

‘There’s multiple factors as to why I beat him,’ he concludes.

‘I’ll not chase a stoppage but if the opportunity presents, I’ll get him out of there. I definitely have the artillery. I’m different calibre altogether!’

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (23 November 2020) British Light-Heavyweight title contender Craig Richards styles himself as the ‘Spider’ but champion Shakan Pitters is threatening to snare him in his web then flush him down the pan when the fierce rivals collide for the title, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5, on Friday 18th December.

‘I’ve watched Richards many times and he’s so deluded, talks like he’s better than he is, and I’m looking forward to setting the record straight,’ says the 6ft 6in Brummie who is now unbeaten in 14 after collecting his crown with a comprehensive 12 round decision over Newark’s Chad Sugden in August.

‘I’ve already sparred plenty better than him. It may sound horrible but I’m really not impressed. I don’t rate his game at all. ‘Spider’s’ not a force in this division.

‘He gets frustrated very easily. He’s certainly not going to be able to outbox me and, if he tries to walk me down, he’ll get his head panned. I bring excitement and I’ll be letting my hands go, bringing the heat.’

During the pre-fight battle of minds, south Londoner Richards, 15-1-1, has been quick to highlight that he holds a sizeable edge in experience (three more paid starts) and has tested his skills against significantly stiffer competition than the champion who has ventured beyond round six only twice.

And the once world rated ‘Spider’ man – who made an unsuccessful domestic title challenge to Frank Buglioni (LPTS12) on the undercard of the Joshua-Takem world heavyweight title blockbuster at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium in 2017 – also casts dispersions on how Pitters could cope under the elevated spotlight of Channel 5 at the Fly By Nite studio in Redditch.

However, skyscraper Shak, 31, scoffs at these perceived shortcomings.

He stresses: ‘Sparring is the closest thing to actually fighting and I’ve had loads of experience of that with heavyweights and cruiserweights plus some real good spars with (2016 Olympic medallist and departing domestic champ) Joshua Buatsi. I do ten rounds comfortable in the gym so it really ain’t gonna be an issue.

“Besides, Dec Spelman (beaten for the English title in September 2019) questioned whether I’d be able to do 10 rounds. Dec’s very game and came determined to avenge his previous loss to me. The pace was very high but I knew my boxing would prevail.”

“I headlined the night I won the title and showed I’ve got the temperament. It’s Craig who can’t deal with pressure. He froze against Buglioni in Cardiff and, when he fluffed his way to a draw against Chad Sugden last time, he claims it was because he was focussing on fighting me. Embarrassing! He seems to have an excuse for everything.”

“He’ll soon discover I’m a naturally bigger man. I’m coming down from cruiser, he’s coming up from super-middle. I’m in the ring at about 13.5 and I see me hurting him, winning by stoppage or, at worse, by a massive margin on points. It ain’t gonna be close. He’s got very limited skills and I intend to spank him all over the ring. He’s getting shown up.”

Whoever prevails can contemplate future bonanza paydays against the likes of Anthony Yarde, Joshua Buatsi and Callum Johnson in what could blossom into a Golden Age for British light-heavies.

But sensible Shakan refuses to get ahead of himself, stating: “All I’ve got in my head is Craig Richards, 18th December, Redditch. I’ll not comment on anyone else until after that.”

“I’ll just focus on myself, what I can bring. Stuff Richards. I’ve had plenty of notice and I’ll push my body to the absolutely limit as I always do.”

“Mick Hennessy has obviously seen something in me to give me this chance and it’s good to be on board. I’m thrilled about the exposure that boxing on Channel Five will bring.”

“I’m very hard to beat. Trust me, Richards won’t ever have met anyone similar before. His spar mates won’t be able to mimic me.

‘I’ve got the heart, the grit and the skills. It’ll take something very special to beat me and Craig Richards certainly ain’t nothing special!”

The British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Birmingham’s Shakan Pitters against Crystal Palace’s Craig Richards headlines the Hennessy Sports fight night. Chief support features the Midlands Area Middleweight Title between Coventry’s River Bent and Burntwood’s Troy Coleman, plus the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Title between Bexleyheath’s Sammy Cantwell and Southampton’s Ricky Little. The undercard features unbeaten Irish super-lightweight sensation Stephen McKenna; Sevenoaks super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. and Birmingham middleweight Idris Virgo.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports