HEARN: PRIZEFIGHTER CHAMP WILL BLOW DIVISION WIDE OPEN

Posted on | January 19, 2011 | No Comments

Promoter believes victory will lead to instant title tilt

Prizefighter promoter Eddie Hearn believes the last man standing at Olympia at Prizefighter Light Heavyweights II on January 29 will put himself into instant contention for domestic honours.

Eight of the most exciting Light-Heavyweights in England will enter the 16th edition of Matchroom Sport’s eight-man, one-night tournaments live on Sky Sports and broadcast in 3D for the first time – and Hearn believes they all have what it takes to become future champions.

“We have a mix of unbeaten, young and experienced boxers taking part,” said Hearn. “Tony Dodson has the experience of high pressure fights, whereas the likes of Llewellyn Davies, Travis Dickinson, Menay Edwards and Billy Slate have their unbeaten records to protect.

“One thing they all share though is a burning desire to be a champion.”

Victory at the event has seen a string of fighters be given title shots, and Hearn believes that the division is ready to see a new star emerge, adding: “Prizefighter is the perfect platform for a fighter to rocket themselves into contention for an immediate title shot.

“We have seen the event lead to World title shots for Willie Casey and Audley Harrison, Commonwealth title shots for Martin Rogan, Sam Sexton, Martin Murray and Ovill McKenzie and British title fights for Gavin Rees and David Dolan.

“The domestic light-heavyweight division is wide open right now and, commercially and deservedly, the next Prizefighter champ will be a perfect contender for any champion.”

The fighters recently attended the Sky Sports studio for a promotional shoot and will all star in next week’s “Prizefighter – The Last Man Standing” 30-minute preview show, airing on Tuesday at 6.30PM on Sky Sports HD1.

For Hearn it was a rewarding moment to see such hungry fighters achieve some five-star treatment.

“It’s so refreshing when you get these guys into the studio and make a fuss of them – it really brings the best out of people,” he said. “Prizefighter is all about giving people a shot, whether it’s experienced fighters trying to claw their way back into the division or young prospects looking to make a name in boxing and in life, both bring a bundle of enthusiasm that guarantees non-stop action at every event.”

Hearn also talked about plans for the remaining three Prizefighters in series III, all scheduled to take place prior to June 30.

“I’m so excited about our plans; our up-coming announcements are going to create some serious noise in the boxing World,” said Hearn. “We will release news of our next event planned for March 23 at the forthcoming Prizefighter, with a former World Champion already contracted.

“The summer will see an International Heavyweights event with a number of household names and former World Champions already in the mix.”

Prizefighter Light Heavyweights II Ticket Update: £20 unreserved, £40 ringside and £120 VIP are now all SOLD OUT. £30 unreserved and £50 ringside are still available – tickets are on sale at SeeTickets.com or through Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900.