(Nov. 15, 2023) — Former world title challenger Denzel Bentley will defend his British middleweight title against the unbeaten Nathan Heaney this Saturday, Nov. 18 in the 12-round main event at the AO Arena in Manchester, England. 

In the 12-round co-feature, unbeaten British featherweight phenom Nick Ball steps up to face former world champion Isaac Dogboe in a WBC world title eliminator.

Promoted by Queensberry, Bentley-Heaney, Ball-Dogboe, and a loaded undercard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Bentley (18-2-1, 15 KOs) went 13-0 before drawing against Mark Heffron in September 2020. The 28-year-old then captured the British middleweight crown before suffering a stoppage defeat to Felix Cash. Bentley bounced back with three wins, including a fourth-round TKO victory against Marcus Morrison in September 2022. Two months later, he made an unsuccessful bid for the WBO world title against Janibek Alimkhanuly. Bentley returns following a first-round knockout win versus Kieran Smith in April. Heaney (17-0, 6 KOs) is a six-year pro who is coming off two wins against Jack Flatley. The 34-year-old will look to remain unbeaten as he attempts to derail Bentley’s plans for a second title shot.

Ball (18-0, 11 KOs) debuted as a pro in June 2017 and captured his first regional title in April 2022 with a sixth-round TKO against Isaac Lowe on the Tyson Fury-Dillian Whyte undercard. He has since won three fights via stoppage, including a 12^th-round TKO against Ludumo Lamati in May. Dogboe (24-3, 15 KOs) burst onto the championship scene when he dethroned then-WBO junior featherweight king Jessie Magdaleno in April 2018. He lost the belt to Emanuel Navarrete in December of that year and, following an unsuccessful rematch, moved up to featherweight. Dogboe is coming off a decision loss to Robeisy Ramirez in April for the WBO featherweight world title.

IN OTHER STREAMING ACTION:

Liam Davies (14-0, 6 KOs) vs. Vincenzo La Femina (13-0, 7 KOs) 12 rounds, Davies’ European Union Junior Featherweight Title

Solomon Dacres (7-0, 2 KOs) vs. Michael Webster (9-0, 6 KOs), 10 rounds, Dacres’ English Heavyweight Title

Ekow Essuman (19-0, 7 KOs) vs. Harry Scatff (12-2, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Essuman’s British, Commonwealth and IBF European Welterweight Titles

Hannah Rankin (13-6, 3 KOs) vs. Ema Kozin (23-1-1, 12 KOs), 10 rounds, Vacant WBC and WBO Junior Middleweight World Titles

Nathaniel Collins (13-0, 7 KOs) vs. Zak Miller (13-0, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Collins’ British and Commonwealth Featherweight Titles

Janibek Alimkhanuly defended the WBO Middleweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Denzel Bentley at The Palms Hotel Casino on Las Vegas.

Alimkhanuly landed 189 of 535 punches. Bentley was 157 of 615.

Alimkhanuly, 159.6 lbs of Zhilandy. KAZ won by scores of 118-110 and 116-112 twice and is now 13-0. Bentley, 159 lbs of London is 15-2-1.

Seniesa Estrada defended the WBA Minimumweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jazmin Gala Villarino.

Estrada, 103.3 lbs of East Los Angeles, CA won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 23-0. Villarino, 105 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 6-2-2.

Emiliano Fernando Vargas stopped Julio Cesar Martinez in round two of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Vargas dropped Martinez with a short but powerful left hook to the chin the folded Martinez under the bottom rope and the fight was stopped at 47 seconds.

Vargas, 133.8 lbs of Las Vegas is 2-0 with two knockouts. Martinez, 134 lbs of South Bend, IN is 1-1.

Javier Martinez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Marco Antonio Delgado in a super middleweight bout.

Martnez, 162.6 lbs of Milwaukee, WI won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 8-0. Delgado, 162.6 lbs of Turlock, CA is 7-5.

Floyd Diaz remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Edgar Joe Cortes in a six-round junior featherweight bout,

In round four, Diaz landed a left to the top of the head that was followed by a right hook to the jaw that sent Cortes down. Cortes got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 1:14.

Diaz, 121.4 lbs of Las Vegas is 8-0 with three knockouts. Cortes, 122.2 lbs of Vineland, NJ is 9-7-1.

Charlie Sheehy obliterated Markus Bowes in the opening round of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Sheehy rocked Bowes several times with hard right hands and then dropped him with the same punch. Sheehy ended things with a vicious combination that forced a referee stoppage at 1:37.

Sheehy, 135 lbs of Brisbane, CA is 5-0 with four knockouts. Bowes, 135.6 lbs of Rosboro, NC is 2-1.

Karlos Balderas stopped Esteban Sanchez in the eighth and final round of their lightweight bout.

In round one, Balderas landed a left hook that set off a flurry of punches that put Sanchez on the canvas.

In round four, Sanchez began to bleed from his nose.

In round eight, Sanchez was still taking shots and the fight was stopped at 1:02.

Balderas, 135.4 lbs of Santa Maria, CA is 14-1 with 12 knockouts. Sanchez, 135.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 18-3.

Antonio Mireles remained perfect with a first round stoppage of Eric Perry in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Mireles landed a heavy combination that put Perry down face first and he was not able to beat the 10-count at 2:26.

Mireles, 269.6 lbs of Des Moines, IA is 6-0 with six knockouts. Perry, 279.8 lbs of Toccoa, GA is 5-7-1.

•  Janibek Alimkhanuly 159.6 lbs vs. Denzel Bentley 159 lbs

(Janibek’s WBO Middleweight World Title — 12 Rounds)

•   Seniesa Estrada 103.8 lbs vs. Jazmin Gala
Villarino 105 lbs 
(Estrada’s WBA Minimumweight World Title — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7:15 p.m. ET / 4:15 p.m. PT)

   •  Raymond Muratalla 135 lbs vs. Miguel Contreras 135.2 lbs
 (Lightweight— 8 Rounds)

   •   Emiliano Fernando Vargas 133.8  lbs vs. Julio Cesar Martinez 134 lbs
 (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

•    Javier Martinez 162.6 lbs vs. Marco Delgado 162.6 lbs 
(Super Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Floyd Diaz 122.4 lbs vs. Edgar Joe Cortes 122.2 lbs
 (Junior Featherweight — 6 Rounds)

   •    Charlie Sheehy 135 lbs vs. Markus Bowes 135.6 lbs
 (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

   •    Karlos Balderas 135.4 lbs vs. Esteban Sanchez 135.2 lbs
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

   •    Antonio Mireles 269.6 lbs vs. Eric Perry 279.8 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 3, 2022) — Boxing’s most avoided world champion finally has a dance partner.

WBO middleweight world champion Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly, a southpaw power puncher from Kazakhstan, will make the first defense of his title against two-time British champion Denzel Bentley on Saturday, Nov. 12 at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, undefeated pound-for-pound queen Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada will defend her WBA minimumweight world title against Jazmin Gala Villarino.

Janibek-Bentley, Estrada-Villarino, and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, tickets starting at $25 go on sale Friday, Oct 7 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

“Janibek is the top middleweight in the world, and this fight will be the start of a long and accomplished championship reign,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I am thrilled to see Seniesa Estrada make her Top Rank debut. She is an exceptionally talented fighter and is poised to be a superstar in the sport for years to come.”

“Denzel Bentley is backing himself and completely believes he has got what it takes to win the WBO world middleweight championship from a formidable champion in Janibek Alimkhanuly,” said Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren. “It is a golden opportunity for Denzel to step up from being a respected British champion to starring on the world stage in Las Vegas.”

Janibek (12-0, 8 KOs), a 2016 Olympian from Zhilandy, Kazakhstan, took the express route to a world title. He fought in his first scheduled 10-rounder in his sixth pro fight, winning a pair of regional titles in a dominant showing over Cristian Olivas. Janibek’s last four bouts have been in Las Vegas, a quartet of knockouts that propelled him to the top of the middleweight heap. In 2021, he knocked out former world champions Rob Brant and Hassan N’Dam to earn a shot at the WBO interim middleweight title. Janibek knocked out Danny Dignum in two devastating rounds to earn a shot at then-champion Demetrius Andrade. Janibek was elevated to world champion after Andrade elected to move up in weight rather than defend his middleweight title.

“I give Denzel Bentley credit for accepting the challenge when so many fighters ran the other way,” Janibek said. “It is a great honor to defend my world title in Las Vegas at The Palms, and I will once again show the world what ‘Qazaq Style’ is about.”

Bentley (17-1-1, 14 KOs) makes his American debut following a recent run that saw him become king of the British middleweights for a second time. Last April, he suffered a stoppage loss to Felix Cash in a “Bubble” setting in front of limited spectators. Following a comeback victory over Sam Evans, he regained the British middleweight title with a 12-round split decision over the previously unbeaten Linus Udofia. “The Battersea Bomber” earned the shot at Janibek with a fourth-round TKO over Marcus Morrison last month. Bentley rebounded from being stunned in the opening round to bust up Morrison’s nose and open a cut over his right eye, forcing a corner stoppage. After perhaps his most dramatic victory, Bentley readies for the Las Vegas main event stage.

“It will be a good and exciting fight, and I think it is a fight I can win,” Bentley said. “So why not go out there and enjoy the theatrics of Las Vegas and come back with a world title? I genuinely believe I can beat him, and he is beatable. Everybody says he is scary, but I don’t see it. Maybe I am missing something. We will find out when we get in the ring.”

Estrada (22-0, 9 KOs), the latest fighting sensation from East Los Angeles, hopes to flash the two-handed power that has made her one of the sport’s must-see action stars. A two-weight world champion who has also won an interim world title at flyweight, Estrada returns from a nearly 11-month layoff to defend her minimumweight title for a second time. She won that title last March with one-sided decision over Anabel Ortiz, then captured the WBO light flyweight title less than four months later with a decision over Japan’s Tenaki Tsunami. Estrada moved back down to minimumweight last December and defended her title with a fourth-round stoppage over Maria Micheo Santizo. A women’s boxing pioneer who has been grinding in Southern California gyms since taking up the sport more than two decades ago, Estrada is set to resume her career with the backing of Top Rank and “The Worldwide Leader in Sports.”

Estrada said, “This is an exciting time for women’s boxing, and I am thrilled to be making my Top Rank on ESPN debut in Las Vegas against a worthy challenger in Villarino. I am entering the prime of my career and looking forward to unifying the championships in three weight classes. The newest chapter in my career begins November 12, and I can’t wait to get in the ring.”

Villarino (6-1-2, 1 KO) enters her first world title opportunity having not tasted defeat since her 2016 pro debut. Last November, she traveled to Colombia and knocked out Venezuelan former world title challenger Yenifer Leon via seventh-round TKO. Leon also was stopped in five rounds by Estrada back in 2019. Villarino followed up the Leon triumph in March with a unanimous decision over Judith Vivanco in Vivanco’s home country of Mexico. She now enters enemy territory for a third straight fight in hopes of riding her road warrior mentality to a world title.

“This is the opportunity I have been waiting for, to fight for a world title against a fellow warrior like Seniesa Estrada,” Villarino said. “I am thankful to Top Rank for the opportunity, and I am coming to Las Vegas to shock the boxing world. On November 12, a new champion will be crowned.”

In undercard action, undefeated lightweight prospect Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (15-0, 12 KOs) will fight in an eight-rounder. Muratalla is coming off a one-sided decision over Jair Valtierra.

Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (5-0, 5 KOs), a 6’9 heavyweight, will fight in his first scheduled six-rounder. Mireles has three consecutive second-round knockouts after scoring a pair of first-round stoppages to start his career.

Junior welterweight Lindolfo Delgado (16-0, 13 KOs), who is coming off an epic decision victory over the previously undefeated Omar Aguilar in August, hopes to inch closer to title contention in an eight-rounder.

2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (13-1, 11 KOs) looks to make it five wins in a row in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Former U.S. amateur superstar Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (7-0, 2 KOs) returns in a six-rounder at super middleweight.

Lightweight Charlie Sheehy (4-0, 3 KOs), a fearsome puncher from the Bay Area, makes his fourth appearance of 2022 in a four-rounder.

About Palms Casino Resort 
Palms Casino Resort is making history as the first resort in Las Vegas fully owned and operated by a Native American Tribe. Palms Casino Resort features two distinct towers with 766 hotel rooms and suites, a diverse mix of bars, restaurants, live entertainment venues and immersive lifestyle experiences across a 95,000-square-foot reimagined casino. The resort also includes over 190,000 square feet of meeting, convention and event space; the Pearl, a 2,500-seat theater; an expansive pool and spa area; wedding chapel; the Brenden Theatres 14-screen cinema and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums.

Palms is located just west of the center of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road. Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (“SMGHA”) an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more information visit http://www.palms.com/ or the Palms Press Room. Follow Palms on social media  Facebook Twitter Instagram.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

DENZEL BENTLEY HAS revealed that he put himself through the torment of reading the social media ‘comments’ following his defeat to Felix Cash in April of last year.

Battersea boy Bentley was brutally parted from his treasured British title belt at York Hall, the same venue that plays host to the first defence of his second coming as British champion against Marcus Morrison this Friday, live on BT Sport.

In the first of a new series of special features as part of the Unibet Lowdown, Dev Sahni introduces ‘One-on-One’, which tells the life story of the charismatic middleweight. The exclusive Bentley episode will be posted live at 6pm on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old, who recaptured his title in a compelling clash with the previously unbeaten Linus Udofia in May, talks us through his forthcoming challenge from Morrison, potential future matches against promotional stablemates Hamzah Sheeraz and Nathan Heaney, while looking back on being left in Ghana by his parents at the age of eight. He also discusses growing up as a young black man in London, the feeling of being stereotyped and being stopped by the police since he was 11 years old.

“I feel I am a mad realistic guy and I know that was a bad loss,” reflected Bentley on his Cash collapse. “Two of my friends pulled up to the venue and, after I tried to ghost them and look the other way, they asked if I was alright and then said ‘don’t watch that, man’.

“Slowly the whole family started to slide up and I was literally trying to slide out. After that I was just lying on my bed one day and I posted something on Instagram. I was going through the comments and I had people telling me to go back to the amateurs and learn this and that.

“I was burned and wanted to reply, but I thought ‘nah, I will be here all day’. Going through it, some people were telling me I would be back and some were full-on rinsing me. After I went through Instagram I was like ‘ok, cool, let’s check Twitter’.

“I tapped in my name, saw all the abuse, then went through the fight and the abuse was crazy. It was mad. I don’t know if it was upsetting, but it bothered me.

“I got to the last of about 300 comments and I was like ‘it’s done now’, there is nothing now that is going to push my emotions, whether it is positive or negative.

“You could say I have taken emotional strength from it and now when I see things I can laugh.”

To view One-on-One in full, click HERE from 6pm on Wednesday

BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Denzel Bentley (16-1-1, 13 KOs) will defend his title against Marcus Morrison (24-5, 16 KOs) at York Hall on Friday September 16, live on BT Sport.

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

DENZEL BENTLEY HAS revealed that a fight with Marcus Morrison could have happened back in 2020 but he was told to ‘wait his turn’ by the now challenger for the British middleweight title.

Bentley makes a first defence of his Lonsdale belt against the Manchester man on September 16 at York Hall, having won back his prized possession with victory over LInus Udofia back in May.

When boxing emerged from lockdown just over two years ago, Bentley of Battersea was informed that Morrison was a potential opposition for his own return, which took place at the BT Sport studios.

Ultimately, a match with Morrison did not come to fruition and the experienced Mick Hall was drafted in to test drive Bentley.

Bentley then took to social media to enquire why Morrison didn’t materialise.

“I was told in the first fight back after lockdown that I was possibly facing Marcus Morrison and then a couple of weeks later it changed to Mick Hall,” recalled the 27-year-old.

“So I sent out a tweet saying ‘what happened to you, I thought we were meant to be fighting?’ and he came back with ‘wait your turn’. So I was like, okay, fair enough.

“Then by the end of that year I won the British and he tweeted me asking for a crack at that, so I told him to get to the back of the queue.

“So we had a bit of fun with each other online and stuff.”

Good things come to those who wait and these two will soon be on the bash in Bethnal Green in a fight fans are looking forward to witnessing.

“Yeah they are, he is someone who tries all the time and doesn’t really back down or go in his shell. He has stepped up to a good level and he can punch.

“I haven’t been in a boring fight yet, so I guess any fight I am in people will be excited to see, to be honest.”

Morrison hails from the prolific Gallagher’s Gym in Bolton where the resident fight guru Joe Gallagher is nurturing a next generation of champions. Just a few weeks ago, Mark Heffron became British, Commonwealth and IBF Intercontinental champion, while Natasha Jonas and Paul Butler are the proud owners of world title belts.

Bentley believes that mixing in a good company does have a positive impact on a fighter and partly for not wanting to be left out of conversations.

“One hundred per cent, if the gym is successful you want to be in the same bracket as these guys,” he added. “When someone is talking about your gym and the top fighters, you want to be mentioned in that light.

“You don’t want to be in the gym for years and years, then when they mention the top guys, people leave you out. You are part of that too and you are going to want to push on and start achieving things.”

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Denzel Bentley (16-1-1, 13 KOs) will defend his title against Marcus Morrison (24-5, 16 KOs) at York Hall on Friday September 16, live on BT Sport.

Also in action in Bethnal Green will be the ferocious Liverpool bantam Andrew Cain (10-0, 9 KOs) making a defence of his WBC International Silver title and Boxxer cruiserweight series winner Ellis Zorro (14-0, 6 KOs) will make his first appearance in Queensberry colours, taking on a tough operator in Dec Spelman (18-5, 9 KOs).

The supporting cast at York Hall includes teenage prodigy Royston Barney-Smith (2-0) taking on Birmingham’s Paul Holt (8-14, 2 KOs) over six rounds in his third professional fight at super featherweight. Willy Hutchinson (14-1, 10 KOs) will be looking to continue his revival at light heavyweight after making a successful comeback in June.

Hackney super featherweight Frank Arnold (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will fight over eight rounds, Buckhurst Hill super bantam Adan Mohamed (4-0, 1 KO) and welterweight Khalid Ali (3-0, 2 KOs) from Brick Lane in London will fight in six round contests, with Belvedere cruiserweight Arnold Obodai (1-0, 1 KO) and the debut-making middleweight Joel Kodua from Beckinham fighting in four-rounders.

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Denzel Bentley will defend his title against Marcus Morrison at York Hall on Friday September 16, live on BT Sport.

Also in action in Bethnal Green will be the ferocious Liverpool bantam Andrew Cain making a defence of his WBC International Silver title and Boxxer cruiserweight series winner Ellis Zorro will make his first appearance in Queensberry colours, taking on a tough operator in Dec Spelman.

Battersea man Bentley (16-1-1, 13 KOs) seized back his treasured Lonsdale belt when he beat the previously undefeated Linus Udofia back in May, having lost his title-holding status against Felix Cash just over a year before.

Bentley, 27, is now revved up and ready to go again against the 29-year-old Morrison (24-5, 16 KOs), who is back at middleweight after trying his luck at 168lbs in a challenge for the WBO International title held by Zach Parker in November of last year.

Morrison’s career reignited with the stunning knockout of Emanuele Blandamura in 2019 to win the WBC International Silver title and, two wins later, he accepted the challenge of taking on Chris Eubank jr and was defeated on points over 10 rounds.

Cain (10-0, 9 KOs) is quickly becoming the feared man of the bantam/super bantam range and his last two fights have resulted in brutal first round stoppages against statistically durable opponents in Pablo Ariel Gomez and Luis Moreno.

This will represent a second defence of his WBC International Silver title for the 27-year-old, who trains out of the Everton Red Triangle gym alongside Nick Ball and Brad Strand.

Zorro (14-0, 6 KOs), 29, kickstarted his cruiserweight mission by teaming up with the team at the Peacock Gym in Epping and, in May, threw his name into the hat for the Boxxer Series up in Manchester, leading to triumphs over James Farrell and the unbeaten pair of Jamie Smith and Ricky Reeves.

His tournament success resulted in being signed up by Frank Warren and his Queensberry journey begins over eight rounds against former English light heavyweight champion Spelman (18-5, 9 KOs), who has moved up to cruiserweight after taking on both Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde at 175lbs.

Also featuring at York Hall is teenage prodigy Royston Barney-Smith (2-0) taking on Birmingham’s Paul Holt (8-14, 2 KOs) over six rounds in his third professional fight at super featherweight. Willy Hutchinson (14-1, 10 KOs) will be looking to continue his revival at light heavyweight after making a successful comeback in June with a third round stoppage of Karel Horejsek in Telford.

Hackney super featherweight Frank Arnold (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will fight over eight rounds, Buckhurst Hill super bantam Adan Mohamed (4-0, 1 KO) and welterweight Khalid Ali (3-0, 2 KOs) from Brick Lane in London will fight in six contests, with Belvedere cruiserweight Arnold Obodai (1-0, 1 KO) and the debut-making middleweight Joel Kodua from Beckinham fighting in four-rounders.

“I am delighted to be putting on a show in London the week before all eyes will be trained on Manchester for the big Joyce-Parker heavyweight showdown,” said promoter Frank Warren.

“Denzel Bentley defending his British middleweight title against a dangerous challenger in Marcus Morrison is a proper York Hall scrap where entertainment is guaranteed. Denzel’s stock is on the up again and we were all proud of the way he reclaimed his belt against a good unbeaten opponent as the away fighter.

“Andrew Cain is quickly falling into the ‘must watch’ category of fighters and he is proving to be an incredible talent who is gaining fans all over the country, while I am also looking forward to launching the Queensberry career of our new cruiserweight Ellis Zorro and he will quickly be in meaningful title action if he can overcome the challenge of the tough Dec Spelman, who we know well from his previous appearances on our show.

“Our little superstar Royston Barney-Smith is definitely one to watch and I am also excited to be bringing Willy Hutchinson back towards title contention once again.”

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

Tomorrow night marks a monumental beginning for Wasserman Boxing as Title action returns to terrestrial television, live on Channel 5.

The wait is over, as the British Middleweight title is on the line in an eagerly anticipated clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs) on Friday May 13.

The card also features the returning Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) coming in search of a statement win, as well as Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) taking on two-time British Title challenger Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) over ten rounds.

Please see below for fighter weights and images.

British Middleweight Title Fight – Udofia vs Bentley (12 Rounds)

Linus Udofia – 159lb

Denzel Bentley – 159.2lb

Josh Kelly vs Xhuljo Vrenozi – Super Welterweight (10 Rounds)

Josh Kelly – 156.6lb

Xhuljo Vrenozi – 159.8lb

Harlem Eubank vs Sean Dodd – Super Lightweight (10 Rounds)

Harlem Eubank – 139lb

Sean Dodd – 139.3lb

Brad Pauls vs Ryan Kelly – British Middleweight Title Eliminator (10 Rounds)

Brad Pauls – 159lb

Ryan Kelly – 159.3lb

Harvey Horn vs Alejandro Torres – Flyweight (10 Rounds)

Harvey Horn – 114.4lb

Alejandro Torres – 110lb

Constantin Ursu vs Boria Lopez – Welterweight (4 Rounds)

Constantin Ursu – 147.2lb

Boria Lopez – TBA

Razor Ali vs Khvicha Gigolashvili – Featherweight (6 Rounds)

Razor Ali – 126.7lb

Khvicha Gigolashvili – 126.2lb

Katharina Thanderz vs Tereza Dvorakova – Super Lightweight (8 Rounds)

Katharina Thanderz – 139.3lb

Tereza Dvorakova – 138.3lb

Dan Morley vs Ivan Njegac – Welterweight (6 Rounds)

Dan Morley – 149.3lb

Ivan Njegac – 150.9lb

The hotly anticipated British Middleweight Title clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs), the return of Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) against Xhuljo Vrenozi (18-4,3 KOs) and Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) versus Sean Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) will top a stacked card in the capital as Wasserman Boxing launch their first free-to-air event live on Channel 5 on Friday May 13 at the Indigo at the O2, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Limited tickets are still available via www.wassermanboxing.com

Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs), Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) and the hotly anticipated British Middleweight Title clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs) will top a stacked card in the capital as Wasserman Boxing launch their first free-to-air event live on Channel 5 on Friday May 13 at the Indigo at the O2, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Sunderland’s ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly will make his long-awaited ring return after a twelve-month absence as the former GB Olympian begins a new chapter in his career with Wasserman Boxing on Channel 5. Having suffered his sole career defeat last time out when challenging David Avanesyan for the European Welterweight Title in February 2021, the Adam Booth trained 28-year-old is itching to get back under the lights and back to the form that saw him heralded as one of British boxing’s most exciting prospects. With World Titles still in his sights, the former Commonwealth and WBA International Welterweight Champion is eager to put on a show and secure a statement win in London.

“I’m excited to get back into the ring and to start this new chapter in my career,” said Kelly. “This is where I belong, and I can’t wait to get back out there and put on a show. I took some time out to sort some personal issues out after my last fight but now I’m ready to get back to what I do best. The next bit of my career is going to be huge. I’m after World Titles. I’m not in the game for anything less. I know I will have to dig deep to get there but I’m ready to do whatever it takes to get a World Title whether that be at Welterweight or Super Welterweight.”

Luton’s ‘Lightning’ Udofia announced himself on the domestic scene with a points win over Tyler Denny to claim the English Middleweight Title in November 2019. The 28-year-old followed this up with a convincing stoppage win over John Harding Jr to defend the belt behind closed doors in Milton Keynes before blasting out Xhuljo Vrenozi in three-rounds at the OVO Arena Wembley. Udofia will now attempt to add the British Title to his collection as he faces his toughest career test against the former champion Bentley.

World ranked Bentley from Battersea returns to the ring following an emphatic third-round technical knockout win over Sam Evans as he looks to recapture the Lonsdale strap he won when stopping Mark Heffron inside four rounds in November 2020, before losing the belt in his first defence to Felix Cash.

“This is a massive fight for me. I’ve always wanted to box for the British Title and to get the opportunity to do it headlining a big show on Channel 5 is a dream come true,” said Udofia. “I want to thank my promoters the Sauerland brothers at Wasserman and my manager Steve Goodwin for getting me into this position. Now, it’s time to show everyone what I can do. I’ve seen a lot of Denzel Bentley. He’s a good operator, he’s very slick and I think our styles are going to gel really well. This is going to be a good fight for the public.”

“I’m excited for this opportunity to box for the British Title again,” said Bentley. “I know my opponent Linus Udofia is a good boxer and it’s going to be a real 50-50 fight. I’m expecting a full-blooded, fan-friendly affair. I can’t wait till fight night. I’m itching to prove that I am still one of the best fighters in the division.”

Rising star Harlem Eubank will take on former Commonwealth Champion and two-time British Title challenger Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) in an exciting ten-round Super Lightweight showdown.

Fresh from a fifth-round stoppage win against former IBF Intercontinental Champion Viorel Simion on the undercard of cousin Chris Eubank Jr’s blockbuster clash with Liam Williams, Eubank can continue his upward career trajectory with a victory over the experienced Birkenhead-boxer Dodd.

“I remember watching my cousin Chris on Channel 5 back in the day,” said Eubank. “It feels great to now have the chance to build my career on a big free-to-air platform. It’s going to be the first of many fights on Channel 5, working with the Sauerlands at Wasserman, and it’s a good fight to get started with.

“Sean Dodd is an experienced boxer. He’s been around the game for a long time. He’s tall and rangy and he likes to fight so I think it’s going to be interesting, but I’m going to be more than prepared for what’s in front of me.”

“This is the sort of opportunity I’ve been looking for,” said Dodd. “I felt I was unfairly done by in my last fight, but this is going to be a proper ten round fight and I’m going to make a big statement.”

In another thrilling domestic scrap, ‘The Newquay Bomb’ Brad Pauls (15-0, 9 KOs) will face Birmingham’s Ryan Kelly (16-3, 8 KOs) in an eliminator for the British Middleweight Title. The unbeaten Pauls will be fighting for the right to challenge for the Lonsdale belt training partner and friend Udofia is contesting on the same night but the Cornish fighter can expect stiff competition from the battle hardened Brummie Kelly, whose only losses have come against top domestic opposition.

“I’m glad I’ve finally got my chance on the big stage in a proper fight against someone ranked higher than me,” said Pauls. “There is everything to gain for me with a shot at the British Title on the line. Ryan Kelly is in the way of me getting my dream belt and I’m taking this fight very seriously. I’m happy to get this fight on such a big platform. This is an opportunity for me to put Cornwall on the boxing map.”

“I am really happy to be on such a big show in a live fight against an undefeated fighter in Brad Pauls,” said Kelly. “I have been working away for this fight since before Christmas and I’m over the moon to finally get the date. People are yet to see the best of Ryan Kelly but for this fight I get full preparation and I’m in the best place for it. It’s my time.”

“We’re delighted to kick start our partnership with Channel 5 with this fantastic free-to-air event,” said Wasserman’s Head of Global Boxing, Kalle Sauerland. “When we signed the deal with Channel 5, we said we wanted to revolutionise free-to-air boxing in the UK by bringing the biggest and best fights possible to the masses. The revolution starts now. We have three sensational domestic matchups, including a mouth-watering British Middleweight Title clash between Linus Udofia and Denzel Bentley, which promises to be a real 50-50 tear up; Harlem Eubank against fan favourite Sean Dodd; and ‘The Newquay Bomb’ Brad Pauls in British Title eliminator versus Ryan Kelly. Not to mention the return of one of British boxing’s most exciting fighters, Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly. This is an event you do not want to miss!”

“We’re excited to be working with Wasserman Boxing to bring this first-class fight night to our audience on Channel 5,” said Caj Sohal, Head of Sport at Channel 5. “Josh Kelly is back and ready to realise his star potential; Linus Udofia versus Denzel Bentley for the British Title promises to be a fight of the year contender; and having previously showcased Chris Eubank Jr on the channel, we look forward to welcoming Harlem Eubank to Channel 5 as he emerges as the latest boxing talent from this famous fighting family.”

“This is a big opportunity for Denzel Bentley to get his British title back,” said Francis Warren for Queensbury Promotions. “He’s a top, top talent, and he gets the chance to showcase what he’s all about on May 13 against a very good opponent in Linus Udofia in his hometown. Denzel is up for this big time. The chance to become a two time British champion is there for the taking, and I fully expect him to grab it with both hands.”

For more information and to sign up for exclusive pre-sale tickets, please visit the Wasserman Boxing website: www.wassermanboxing.com

Wasserman Boxing today won the purse bid for the hugely anticipated British Middleweight Title contest between Linus Udofia and Denzel Bentley.
 
Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) will now face Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs) for the British Title on a Wasserman Boxing promoted event with further details announced soon.
 
“We’re delighted to have won today’s bid and secured home advantage for Linus in what promises to be a spectacular showdown for the Lonsdale belt,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “We saw a brilliant fight between Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Williams in Cardiff on Saturday, and now we can look forward to another mouth-watering all-British Middleweight clash.
 
“The British Middleweight scene is stacked full of talent but we believe Linus is ready to take over. We have a lot of exciting announcements coming up, which will include the date and location for this fantastic British Title fight.”
 
Udofia, now undefeated in seventeen paid contests, announced himself on the domestic scene with a points win over Tyler Denny to capture the English Title in November 2019. The Luton-man then defended his strap with a TKO win over John Harding Jr in October 2020. ‘Lightning’ will now aim to add the British Title to his collection as he faces former champion Bentley for the vacant belt.

FORMER British Middleweight champion Denzel Bentley will return to action at Utilita Arena, Birmingham on Saturday November 6, live on BT Sport.

The Battersea man, 26, will face Wednesbury hopeful Sam Evans (10-1-1, 3 KOs) in a non-title ten rounder.

Bentley (14-1-1, 12 KOs) who hasn’t boxed since losing his title against Felix Cash in April said: “It’s just nice to be back.

“I was meant to box last month, but the fight never happened and when we got offered this fight I took it right away. I am always in the gym and ready.

“I am pleased it’s an opponent like Sam because he will let his hands go and should be full of ambition. I don’t want full camps for knock over jobs.

“Sam knows that if he can get past me he’ll be right in the big title picture, but I can’t allow anyone to eat from my plate again. I can’t wait for this fight.”

Woodville’s Zach Parker (21-0, 15 KOs) headlines the talent stacked card and defends his WBO International Super-Middleweight championship against Manchester’s Marcus Morrison (24-4, 16 KOs)

The champion won’t just be risking his crown, but also his status as number one contender in the rankings for the WBO World title held by Canelo Alvarez when he faces Morrison.

Massive Stoke-on-Trent ticket seller Nathan Heaney (13-0, 5 KOs) will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Sladan Janjanin (30-8, 23 KOs) for the vacant IBO International Middleweight title.

Also in eight round action is exciting Southampton hope Ryan Garner (10-0, 6 KOs) who goes in against Portugal’s Pedro Manuel Gomes (9-1, 2 KOs).

In another eight rounder Irish Welterweight prospect Dylan Moran (15-1, 6 KOs) returns after almost 12 months on the sidelines.

Scotland’s former World Youth amateur champion Willy Hutchinson (13-1, 9 KOs) has his first contest since losing against Lennox Clarke in a British and Commonwealth Super-Middleweight title fight in March and faces Westbury’s Anthony Fox (8-13-4) over eight rounds.

Northampton Super-Lightweight Eithan James (6-0) and Dubliner Willo Hayden (1-0) are both scheduled to box six rounders.

Telford pair, Super-Lightweight Macauley Owen (1-0, 1 KO) and Bantamweight debutant Raheem Muhammed are in four round action.

DENZEL BENTLEY IS banishing the demons of his bruising British title defeat against Felix Cash by quickly getting himself back to work at the new Peacock Gym in Epping.

Middleweight Bentley, 26, was parted from his treasured Lonsdale belt by Wokingham man Cash when referee Victor Loughlin stepped in to stop proceedings in the third round at York Hall 12 days ago.

While initially devastated over the loss of his belt and unbeaten record, Bentley is now able to look at the bigger picture and accept that in accepting highly competitive fights between unbeaten champions, something has to give.

“I’m alright, I’m good,” reflected the former champion. “I am just getting back to work and getting ready to go again, really. It would be nice and lovely to go through your career undefeated and stuff, but it is what it is.

“I am not one of these guys who has been boxing my whole life and I wasn’t expecting to go through my career without a defeat.

“He was big, but I still felt I could beat him, regardless of the size. I thought I could out-skill him but he made the decision to over-commit to his shots so when I was pulling out he could catch me.

“He obviously stunned me a bit and I do know when I pull out I do it with my hands down. It worked for him and there is nothing I can do about it now.”

Battersea boy Bentley now acknowledges that some sporting perspective is required in dealing with his disappointment.

“If I am being honest with you, I took that loss bad. Because of the way I lost and that I didn’t get to show what I can really do. Nowhere near did I show the best of myself and not even half of what I can do. I was in there, too over-reactive and didn’t get to settle.

“In my mind I thought as the rounds went on I would settle, but I didn’t get the chance to.

“That is probably what is most annoying and I took it really bad. After the fight my family and friends came over to the venue just to make sure I was okay and, at first, I didn’t want to see them. Martin and Ray (trainers) said I can’t do that so I went out and more people turned up.

“My brother said it, ‘you’d have thought someone had died – you lost a fight’, but I took it bad. One hundred per cent I need to put it in a sporting context, I get it, but it was my first loss and it was always going to be hard.

“I don’t plan on losing again and I will always put my all on the line, but I lost a 50-50 and somebody had to lose. A lot of people don’t take these fights. I’ve got to live with it and it doesn’t change my perspective because I still want to be in these fights.

“From the start I wanted to be one of the best in Britain and the only way I can do that is to be in these types of fights. Not by swerving guys and going different routes.”

Boxing is back on BT Sport 1 HD TOMORROW NIGHT AT 7.30PM

In the main event Denzel Bentley defends his British Middleweight title against Felix Cash, who will be putting his own Commonwealth title on the line. Elsewhere on the card, Callum Johnson returns after a 2 year absence against Croatia’s Emil Markic. David Adeleye takes a step-up when he battles Kamil Sokolowski and Queensberry prospects Henry Turner, George Davey and Karol Itauma all return to action.

Worcester’s Owen Cooper makes his Queensberry debut.

Official photos from todays weigh-in can be found here

Felix Cash – 159lb 9oz
Denzel Bentley – 159lb 4oz

Emil Markic – 174lb 5oz
Callum Johnson – 174lb 6oz

Kamil Sokolowski – 230lb
David Adeleye – 225lb 7oz

Clayton Bricknell – 138lb 3oz
Henry Turner – 142lb 2oz

Jamie Stewart – 146lb 2oz
George Davey – 147lb 4oz

James Heneghan – 161lb 8oz
Dwain Grant – 161lb 6oz

Ryan Hibbert – 176lb 9oz
Karol Itauma – 176lbs

Daryl Pearce – 147lbs 5oz
Owen Cooper – 147lbs 6oz

DENZEL BENTLEY has accused big fight rival Felix Cash of being a “dirty fighter”.

He defends the British Middleweight championship against mandatory contender, Cash (13-0, 9 KOs) who will be risking his Commonwealth title on Saturday (April 24), live on BT Sport.

When Bentley (14-0-1, —12 KOs) sparred with Cash a few years ago things spilled over when Bentley got fed up with Cash’s roughhouse tactics.

He has admitted to pulling Cash into a headlock before being picked up by his rival. They ended up grappling on the floor before being pulled apart.

Bentley, 26, recalled: “We both did four rounds sparring then jumped back in with each other.

“We were going at it and he started hitting low and behind the head – all the little dirty tricks he likes to do. Then it got heated, he got upset and it turned into a little scrap but it’s in the past.

“He says I was clinging on for dear life – well we will see on Saturday.

“I do everything better than Felix. Is he gonna turn up with his dirty tricks? He is a dirty fighter. Everyone has seen it in his fights.

“He does it well and gets away with it a lot, but it’s not going to bother me. I reckon I am going to stop him even if he doesn’t have chinks in his armour.”

Cash, 28,  hit back: “Am I a dirty fighter? I am what I am. I am a very good fighter and I am going to show Denzel. I will win the fight by stoppage.”

Bentley is making his first defence of the title he won by forcing Mark Heffron to retire in November and promoter Frank Warren has suggested his man is close to moving onto to the world stage.

The Hall of Fame promoter who won the purse bids to stage the showdown added: “There was talk that Tony Sims (Felix’s trainer) said he was considering not taking the fight and moving on, but hats off to them.

“From a fans point of view it doesn’t get any better than this. The one who has the skills and wants it the most will come through.

“I have an opinion about the fight and that is why we got behind Denzel in the purse bids. We believe in him.

“If Denzel comes through this as we expect him to then he will move on and into a position where he gets a world title fight.”

Also on the bill, former British Light-Heavyweight champion and world title challenger Callum Johnson (18-1, 13 KOs) challenges Bosnia’s Emil Markic (32-2, 24 KOs) for the vacant WBO Global title.

Some of the best prospects in the Queensberry stable are also on show including London Heavyweight banger David Adeleye (5-0, 5 KOs) who boxes a six rounder.

Over six rounds York Super-Welterweight George Davey (3-0) meets Jamie Stewart (2-1-1), and Super-Lightweight Henry Turner (4-0) keeps busy.

In four rounders are Liverpool Middleweight James Heneghan (4-0), Worcester Welterweight Owen Cooper (3-0) and Chatham Light-Heavyweight Karol Itauma (1-0) a Youth Olympic Gold Medallist.

HALL OF FAME PROMOTER Frank Warren today hosted the final head-to-head press conference between British Middleweight champion Denzel Bentley (14-0-1, 12 KOs) and Commonwealth title holder Felix Cash (13-0, 9 KOs).

Both titles will be on the line when the bitter rivals meet on Saturday (April 24) live on BT Sport.

Here is a selection of quotes from today’s presser.

FRANK WARREN

This fight came about because the British Boxing Board of Control ordered it. Denzel and Felix didn’t want to withdraw from it. It went out to purse bids which we (Queensberry) won and it’s on.

I don’t think it gets any better than this. Both guys are undefeated, they have similar records and I think you are going to see something a little bit special. I understand there is no love lost from sparring, and was there unofficial sparring out of the ring? This has got the hallmarks of a classic fight in a division that Britain has always flown the flag in. You can go back over the years and look at some of the great British and Commonwealth Middleweight title fights. This, definitely has a great chance of being up there as far as quality and action are concerned. As a boxing fan I’m looking forward to it. There was a lot of talk, that Tony Sims (Felix’s trainer) said he was considering not taking the fight and moving on, but hats off to them. We won the purse bids and they are having the fight. From the fans point of view it doesn’t get any better than this. The one who has the skills and wants it the most will come through. I have an opinion about the fight and that is why we got behind Denzel in the purse bids. We believe in him. If Denzel comes through this as we expect him to then he will move on and into a position where he gets a world title fight. Denzel hasn’t come through the easy way. It has been tough. I lost a main event on a televised dinner show on the day. Denzel had been sparring ten rounds, but he jumped at a fight that night and stopped Serge Ambomo. That tells me a lot about him. It shows me a guy who believes in himself. He has looked better and better. He is a credit to himself and his trainer Martin Bowers. If good guys win he comes through this weekend. Fans are going to see something special between two talented fighters. There is competition between them, their promoters. The whole thing smacks of electricity. It will be exciting while it lasts.

DENZEL BENTLEY

I am very proud to be British Middleweight champion. I have been everywhere with the belt. I’ve shown it off to let everyone know about my achievements. I am proud. I think Felix will regret taking this fight. Felix believes he is world level, but go through his opponents and there is nothing to suggest he is at that level, but every fighter needs to believe they are. I believe I am world level and he believes I’m not, so we will see. There is the sparring story with Felix. We both did four rounds sparring then jumped back in with each other. We were going at it and he started hitting low and behind the head – all the little dirty tricks he likes to do. Then it got heated, he got upset and it turned into a little scrap but it’s in the past. He says I was clinging on for dear life – well we will see on Saturday.

I do everything better than Felix. Is he gonna turn up with his dirty tricks? He is a dirty fighter. Everyone has seen it in his fights before. He does it well and gets away with it a lot, but it’s not going to bother me. I reckon I am going to stop him even if he doesn’t have chinks in his armour.

FELIX CASH

Every British fighter wants to win the British title and that is what I want to do. Denzel is in my way so let’s get it on. I cannot wait to get my hands on the British belt. There were other options on the table, but we sat down and spoke as a team. We had a look at Denzel and just said, ‘Let’s go for it.’ I would have preferred it was on a Matchroom show, but it doesn’t make any difference to me, a ring is a ring and the best man will win on the night. I believe I am world level and I don’t believe that Denzel is. He is a decent domestic fighter. I believe I am a level above him and I will show him on Saturday night. Styles make fights. I believe I am better and I will prove that. We will sort it out man to man and the best man will win. I believe that man is going to be me. He has been doing a world tour with that belt. I hope he has enjoyed it because it is leaving him on Saturday night. I am going to be in front of him and he will have to deal with it. Am I a dirty fighter? I am what I am. I am a very good fighter and I am going to show Denzel. I will win the fight by stoppage. Let’s just put on a good fight for the fans.

Also on the bill, former British Light-Heavyweight champion and world title challenger Callum Johnson (18-1, 13 KOs) challenges Bosnia’s Emil Markic (32-2, 24 KOs) for the vacant WBO Global title.

Some of the best prospects in the Queensberry stable are also on show including London Heavyweight banger David Adeleye (5-0, 5 KOs) who boxes a six rounder.

Also in six round action, York Super-Welterweight George Davey (3-0) who meets Jamie Stewart (2-1-1) and Super-Lightweight Henry Turner (4-0).

 In four rounders are Liverpool Middleweight James Heneghan (4-0) and Chatham Light-Heavyweight Karol Itauma (1-0) a Youth Olympic Gold Medallist.

DENZEL BENTLEY will wear his Lonsdale belt AND his Ghanaian heritage with pride when he looks to defeat Middleweight challenger Felix Cash on April 24th.

Denzel has been hard at work at the Peacock Gym readying himself for the biggest fight of his life, but was delighted he had the time to take the trappings of his British title success on a whirlwind tour of his region of Ghana after his last scrap.

Bentley, 26, won the middleweight Lonsdale belt after a brutal stoppage of Mark Heffron and, with it being his third fight in under four months, he took himself off on holiday to the birthplace of his parents, where he still enjoys strong family connections.

The trip turned into something of a victory parade and the champ, along with his belt, was the cause of much celebration amongst the local population.

For the 14-0-1 man from Battersea, it was a source of great pride for his accomplishment to be received with such joy in his second home.

“It meant a lot and let me know how proud everyone was back home and how much they supported me and continue to support me,” said the fighter known as ‘2Sharp’.

“It has kind of got me feeling that I don’t want to let them down now by going back there empty handed or having taken a step back. It is a good sort of pressure that will make me keep my head down and keep grinding towards the success that I want.”

The London-born Bentley fully embraces his dual-nationality.

“I am Ghanaian by blood and British by birth. I am proud to be British, I was born and grew up here aside from going to Ghana for a couple of years when I was younger. This is home, but also where my parents are from is home too so when I go back I am a mix of the two together and I know I have got both of my people behind me.

“It is amazing really and I couldn’t ask for any more. You could say I have got the best of both worlds. Being back and forth is good because I am accepted in both countries.”

The pinnacle of Bentley’s most recent foray to Ghana was an audience with the King of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, which he does admit was a nerve-racking experience.

“Yes! Oh my days, I haven’t been so nervous before, more than even when I made my debut. I didn’t want to get anything wrong, there are a few protocols you need to observe and I haven’t been in that position before.

“I was presenting myself in front of royalty to be congratulated and I needed to get it right. I wanted it to be like the perfect day because it is something I will remember forever. As soon as they called out my name to come and meet him the nerves struck and everyone around me was telling me how to approach it.

“When I got there he was nice and relaxed, giving me blessings and congratulating me, saying how proud he and the people of the Ashanti are of me. It was good to hear those words because I’m just a kid that has come from, really and truly, nowhere.

“For him to take me in, congratulate me and show me love was special.”

If Bentley manages to add the Commonwealth title to his British when he takes on Felix Cash on April 24 in a highly-anticipated collision, he will emulate one achievement of a true Ghanaian hero, Azumah Nelson, who held the belt at featherweight in 1983.

“Yes, and I met him out there as well,” he reported. “It means a lot in Ghana because they are part of the Commonwealth and, although it is not the world title, they do appreciate and would be proud of me winning it.

“When I met Azumah he was telling me to go out there and be better than he was. I am sure he would be proud if I win it and it is a good title to go out and win.”

Denzel Bentley (14-0-1) vs Felix Cash (13-0) for the British and Commonwealth middleweight titles headlines a bumper night of boxing, live on BT Sport on April 24.

The show will also see the return to action of Queensberry starlet’s David Adeleye (5-0), George Davey (3-0), Henry Turner (4-0), James Heneghan (4-0) and Karol Itauma (1-0).

CALLUM JOHNSON will be back in action on April 24^th after more than TWO YEARS of inactivity. The Queensberry newbie will return on the card headlined by Denzel Bentley’s defence of his British title against Felix Cash.

Johnson insists he is on course for a second world title challenge and huge domestic clashes against fellow Queensberry boxers Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde, but first must shake off the ring rust as he battles experienced Bosnian, Emil Markic (32-2, 24 KO’s).

‘The One’ faces Markic for the vacant WBO Global Light-Heavyweight title over ten rounds in London on Saturday April 24, (live on BT Sport).

Boston’s Johnson who recently returned to Frank Warren’s stable hasn’t boxed since an impressive stoppage win against American Sean Monaghan in March 2019.

The former British and Commonwealth champion said: “I have been out for two years, but I am not bothered what level I come back at. I am a fighter at the end of the day.

“There is pressure after two years out. I just hope I remember to do it right when I get back in there. I’m sure I will.”

Johnson (18-1, 13KOs) was fearless when he challenged IBF World title holder Artur Beterbiev in October 2018. He floored the division’s main man before losing in the fourth round of a brutal war.

Callum who started his career with Warren believes the Hall of Fame promoter will get him back in the big time at home and on the global stage.

He also hopes a potential tournament featuring Commonwealth champion Arthur, Yarde and himself will be a big attraction for fans.

“I just want activity, to be in exciting fights and have a great couple of years,” Johnson added.

“I think Lyndon and Anthony are good fighters, but I believe I am the best in the country and would beat anybody.

“Do I believe I will beat them two? One million per-cent.

“Are they good fighters? Of course they are. It’s good that there are a few good fighters in our division that makes it so exciting.

“We can all fight each other. It can be like the UFC where a few fighters can fight each other and a loss doesn’t matter.

“You can get back a few months later and fight another guy so it’s exciting and something fans will like.”

Markic turned professional in June 2012 and twice won the WBO European Light-Heavyweight title, but never defended that crown after victories on the road against Denis Liebau and Kavin Gebhard.

He has won seven fights on the spin since losing to world ranked Umar Salamov in May 2017, but Johnson is unconcerned by his rival’s form.

Callum said: “People will see I have been out for a while, but I haven’t been off the scene. I have been in the gym, sparring, stayed fit and healthy.

“Until the night we won’t know, but I am not expecting to show much ring rust and to do a job on Markic.”

Headlining the behind closed doors show is Battersea’s Denzel Bentley (14-0-1, 12KOs) who makes the first defence of his British Middleweight title against mandatory challenger Felix Cash (13-0, 9 KOs), who will be risking his Commonwealth championship.

The show will also see the return to action of Queensberry starlet’s David Adeleye, George Davey, Henry Turner, James Heneghan and Karol Itauma.

BRITISH Middleweight champion Denzel Bentley will make the first defence of his title against mandatory challenger Felix Cash on Saturday April 24.
 
The unbeaten pair will headline what promises to be another star-studded night of boxing live on BT Sport.
 
Queensberry Promotions won the purse bids for the fight between their man Bentley (14-0-1, 12 KOs) and Cash (13-0, 9 KOs), whose Commonwealth crown is also on the line.
 
Battersea’s Bentley won the title in November when Mark Heffron was retired by his corner because of a grotesquely swollen left eye and Denzel insists Cash is next to see what damage his punches can cause.
 
“If we’re both at our best it will be a very good fight. There will be moments when the fight will be back and forth, but I am expecting to win.” said the champion.
 
“If I win comfortably I will be happy. If I win a hard fight I will be happy. I will be prepared for the best version of Felix.
 
“I know I am stepping up to a 50-50 fight and closer to what I want to achieve in the sport.
 
“Felix is a decent fighter, but this is one that will take me up another level so I am ready for it.”
 
Cash, 27, turned professional in June 2016 and became Commonwealth champion more than two years later when he stopped Nigerian Rasheed Abolaji inside a round.
 
He has stopped Jack Cullen and Jason Welborn in his two defences, but is ready for the biggest fight of his professional career.
 
“I want my name to go in the history books of holding the British title, it’s time to show everyone in the division who’s the man,” said the Wokingham boxer.
 
“There’s only one way to win in my eyes and I’m coming to take him out.”
 
Promoter Frank Warren added: “I cannot wait for Denzel against Felix, Denzel is one of the hottest properties in British boxing right now. He has taken every opportunity that lockdown boxing has afforded him – he’s won fights, won titles, headlined shows and really thrived with all the extra exposure that’s come his way. He’s definitely a fighter we’re looking at moving on to the next level.
 
“He never turns down a challenge and is one of the easiest there is to promote. You give him a date and an opponent and he is there.
 
“Felix is a solid test for Denzel, but I believe at Queensberry we have the finest eye for talent in British boxing and am fully backing our man to get a decisive victory.”
 

HEFFRON v BENTLEY 2 RUNNING ORDER:

Fight # 1
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Welterweight Contest
MICKEY BURKE JR. (10st 8lb 8oz) v THOMAS BROADBENT (10st 9lb 6oz)

Fight # 2
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
HENRY TURNER (10st 2lb 5oz) v DES NEWTON (10st 2lb 4oz)

Fight # 3 
10 X 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
CAOIMHIN AGYARKO (11st 9lb 10oz) v ROBBIE CHAPMAN (11st 11lb 10oz)

Fight # 4 
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Light-Heavyweight Contest
TOMMY FURY (12st 13lbs 6oz) v GENADIJ KRAJEVSKIJ (12st 13lb 8oz)

Fight # 5 
The Vacant British Middleweight Championship
12 x 3 Minute Rounds @ 160lbs
MARK HEFFRON (11st 5lb 4oz) v DENZEL BENTLEY (11st 5lb 2oz)
————–

Heffron v Bentley 2 is live from BT Sport Studio @ 7.30pm on BT Sport 1 HD

DOMESTIC MIDDLEWEIGHT RIVALS Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley are all set to repeat their thrilling September encounter on Friday night – live on BT Sport – and this time the coveted British title is on the line.

Heffron (25-1-1) and Bentley (13-0-1) were given the opportunity today for a final say on how they think this highly-anticipated collision will play out in the ring and the questions and answers are detailed in full below.

Photos from today’s live Q and A available here

The judges scored the first fight 95-95, what went through your head when you heard that?
DB: I was disappointed because I thought I nicked it and I thought the last round would give me the decision. At the end of the day we are in a better position now and I’ve got to make this one count.

Were you disappointed with the scores or a little bit disappointed with yourself?
DB: That is a good question. Maybe a bit of both, but the scores mainly. I thought I did what I needed to do apart from falling asleep in the middle rounds and allowing him to come back into the fight. Other than that, more so the scorecards.

A clear Denzel Bentley win in your eyes?
DB: Yes.

Mark, how many times have you watched the fight back?
MH: I’ve watched the fight 10 or 11 times now and I see the same thing every time. I think I won the fight.

What makes you think you did more than Denzel?
MH: I just feel like I landed the much bigger shots, the more work and the cleaner shots.

Talk us through the knockdown. Were you hurt?
MH: Not at all. Not one bit was I hurt because I was more off-balance than anything. I got straight up and straight back on with it and I feel like I won the rest of the round.

You’ve gone on record saying Denzel is deluded because he says he won. Why is he so far wrong?
MH: He is deluded because I clearly won the fight and he thinks he won it.

Are you deluded, Denzel?
DB: Listen, there is one person saying he won every round of that fight so there is only one person that is deluded here.

You scored the knockdown in the fight. Did you think you had hurt him?
DB: No, I know I didn’t hurt him. He just walked into a shot, panicked and went down. I knew he wasn’t ready to go and that is why I didn’t jump on him. He is right, he wasn’t hurt.

There was a point in the fight when it looked like you were hurt with a clean shot landed by Mark. Were you hurt?
DB: It was a good shot. I wasn’t hurt, but it buzzed me a bit, my chin was in the air and I was a bit tired. It was a good shot that took me two seconds to recover from.

What can Mark do differently in the rematch?
DB: You have to ask him. I have no clue.

What can you change Mark? Do you feel you need to change anything?
MH: We’ve made a few changes that you will see on the night.

You have been with Michael Jennings a little bit longer. How much of a difference is that going to make?
MH: I’d been in the gym with Michael for one week and then we got the fight date. The last camp was more just getting fit for the fight. This camp we have got a good, good game plan and we’ve made a few changes.

Denzel, you are fighting a lot right now. You might be the most active fighter in lockdown, with also fighting in July against Mick Hall. Are you tired?
DB: No, I am alright, I’m happy, I’m active and a lot of people don’t have the opportunity to fight at all. I am grateful, happy and I appreciate it.

It felt like you changed your style from what we are used to. It felt like you went from being a big power puncher to a bit of a mover. Talk us through that?
DB: I didn’t change anything, it is just a side you haven’t seen before. Unless you have seen me in the gym or in the amateurs, you won’t know that I can do whatever I want to do in the ring. That is just the side I decided to show that day, the side I felt would win the fight. You don’t just go in there and think you will run through everyone. You’ve got to pick and choose.

Can you improve on the first performance? Do you have to improve? What do you need to do differently?
DB: I think I can improve in general and not just because of the first fight against Mark. I am going to improve throughout my career. I have only been a pro for three years and got to this level quickly despite not having a deep amateur career. I have improved quickly and there are more improvements to make.

Ahead of the first fight, you were saying; ’I’ll win”. This time you’re saying; ‘Tune in because I will stop him.’ Where has this confidence come from?
DB: It is not about finding confidence, but knowing what I can do. I feel like I am going to stop him and that is it.

Were there chinks in Mark’s armour in the first fight that maybe you didn’t exploit?
DB: You find that in anyone. I just feel I will stop him.

Has Mark got the power to stop you?
DB: He couldn’t finish me in the first fight and he isn’t going to finish me now.

You landed a big shot in round nine of the first fight. You have a big reputation as a fearsome puncher. What does it do for your confidence when you land clean and he’s still there?
MH: When you step up levels one shot doesn’t knock opponents out. That is where I have gone wrong in the past – admiring my shots and stuff like that. I have been working with Michael Jennings on not admiring my work, but putting shots together.

Are you looking to take the decision out of the judges’ hands and getting the job done early?
MH: I am ready for a good, solid 12 rounds, but if I can take it out of the judges’ hands I will.

Has he got the power to stop you?
MH: He definitely hasn’t got the power to stop me.

It’s your first 12 rounder and first crack at a British title. You have been accused of taking rounds off. This is 12 rounds. How can you not take rounds off?
DB: I will do what I need to do and be in that fight every round. It is not a matter of taking rounds off. It’s a matter of boxing how I feel is appropriate on the night. I did ten rounds last time and finished strong so the extra two rounds won’t hurt.

What will becoming British champion mean to you?
DB: It would mean a lot to me. I have been calling for this title for a while so to finally get a chance to fight for it is good. I’m happy for the chance and excited. Being champion of your home country is something else.

You have a WBO ranking, number 14 so there is a lot at stake.
DB: They saw the last fight.

What are you going to do differently?
MH: You’ll see how I am going to finish him on the night.

What does it potentially mean to you to win the British title?
MH: To win the British title on Friday means the absolute world to me. I can’t wait and I am buzzing. A British title is what every domestic fighter wants and I feel I should be British champion now if Jason Welborn hadn’t pulled out. Instead, I moved up a few levels and fought Liam Williams.

What do you think of that world ranking on the line?
MH: It’s a massive opportunity because there will also be a world ranking.

What is your final message?
MH: I hope he has worked hard, because I know I have. I can’t wait.

Anything you want to say to Mark?
DB: Just show up on Friday, Mark.

QUEENSBERRY PROMOTIONS can confirm that three positive coronavirus tests have been returned after the most recent batch of testing carried out by Prenetics.

The positive tests have come from the camps of Michael Rambaletsa, Kaisy Khademi and Masood Abdulah.

Consequently, the scheduled bouts between Michael Ramabaletsa and Chris Bourke, Kaisy Khademi and Ijaz Ahmed and Masood Abdulah and Levi Dunn have now been cancelled in line with the protocols of the British Boxing Board of Control and the Promoter.

The rest of the show’s participants, who have been isolating at a London base this week, have tested negative and the show will continue as planned with Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley still main eventing for a chance to claim the vacant British Middleweight title.

Promoter Frank Warren said: “These are unprecedented times, and it is a huge shame to lose three great fights. I’m obviously gutted for the boys who have worked had for this week but I am pleased to see the excellent safety measures implemented by my team and the board are working so effectively.

“I am thankful to our partners at BT for working with us to ensure the event can continue safely, and fans can look forward to a cracking main event between Mark and Denzel.

“We wish those affected a speedy recovery.”

The British Boxing Board of Control have today announced that the highly anticipated rematch between Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley has been sanctioned for the now vacant British Middleweight title.

Previously announced as a final eliminator, the bout was upgraded once Liam Williams chose to vacate his title. Williams will now focus his attention on his position as the mandatory challenger for the WBO title held by Demetrius Andrade.

Heffron (25-1-1, 19KO’s) and Bentley (13-0-1, 11KO’s) last met on the 12th September, with the fight ending in a controversial unanimous draw. Both fighters believed they’d done enough to win the fight, and will now get a chance to settle the debate with the richest prize in domestic boxing on the line.

On fighting for the British title, Mark Heffron said: “My daughter Poppy wants that title belt for Christmas and I never let her down.”

Denzel Bentley was equally confident, saying: “Being British and fighting for the British title is an honour. I want to conquer home first, then I’ll go on to conquer the world.”

Heffron vs Bentley 2 headlines another huge night of BT Sport Boxing for Queensberry Promotions on Friday November 13th.

Chief support to the huge domestic battle will be provided by Tommy Fury (3-0, 2KO’s), who will be returning the ring for the first time since last December. Tyson’s younger brother will undoubtedly be looking for another spectacular first round knockout.

English Champion Michael Ramabeletsa (18-17, 8KO’s) will compete against Chris Bourke (8-0, 5KO’s) in a 10 round Super-Bantamweight clash.

Queensberry new boy Kaisy Khademi (8-0, 2KO’s) makes his promotional debut in a 10 round defense of his WBO European Super-Flyweight title against Birmingham’s Ijaz Ahmed (7-2). The vacant IBF European title will also be on the line.

Rounding out the card will be unbeaten featherweight Louie Lynn (7-0, 6KO’s), former Team GB starlet Muhammad Ali (1-0) and professional debutant Masoud Abdulah.

Queensberry Promotions can today confirm the return of Friday night fights to BT Sport on November 13th with the announcement of the highly anticipated rematch between British Middleweight standouts Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley.

The BBBofC have confirmed that the bout will serve as a final eliminator for the British Middleweight title.

UK fans have demanded the domestic duel be rerun ever since their epic September scrap ended with a rare unanimous draw. That wish has now been granted.

Whilst the first fight was arguably the highlight of all post-lockdown boxing, fans were left crying out for more as the ringside judges couldn’t separate the fighters – all three scoring the bout 95-95. 

In the world of social media, neither experts nor fans could unite behind a singler fighter as the rightful winner and, equally, the fighters themselves were both convinced they’d done enough to claim victory.

With no consensus victor from punters, pundits and fighters alike, Frank Warren has taken the only course of action that made sense and booked the rematch.

“The British fans wanted it, so we’ve delivered it” said Warren, adding “it was the easiest decision in the world to put these two back in the ring together.”

“The response to the first fight was overwhelmingly positive. Fans up and down the country were hailing the fight as the best domestic Middleweight scrap in years. With no clear winner, the only thing to do was book an immediate rematch and let these two finally settle the debate once and for all.

“I had the first fight a draw, honestly. I thought Mark was all action and came forward well, but Denzel boxed tremendously, showed great movement and picked his shots intelligently. Denzel scored a big knockdown early, but got hurt himself in the later rounds.

“It’s only right that the fight is an eliminator for the British title. The winner of this will go on and achieve great things.

“This rematch is such a great fight for British boxing fans, and I couldn’t begin to pick a winner. I reckon the bookies are going to struggle to separate them too – it’s the definition of a 50-50 fight.”

Mark Heffron (25-1-1, 19KO’s) said: “I’m so pleased that this rematch has been arranged and I’m back in the ring so quick. You will see a sharper Mark Heffron this time. I know I won the first fight, but in this second one I’m planning on leaving no doubt.”

Denzel Bentley (13-0-1, 11KO’s) said: “Thanks to Frank for getting the rematch on for us straight away and giving me another chance to show the world why I’m the future of this division.”

It was also confirmed that Tommy Fury will return to action on the undercard. Tyson’s younger brother was last seen in action on December 21, and will be looking for another first round stoppage in the Light Heavyweight division. Opponent TBC.

Heffron vs Bentley 2 will air live on BT Sport, Friday November 13th.