Articles Section

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17/11/08

Heywood Welterweight Mark Thompson further pressed for a British title shot when he defeated Glasgow’s Craig Dickson at the Robin Park Arena, Wigan on Friday night. Thompson was coming off a points victory against Gatis Skuja at the York hall whilst Dickson was still reeling form a points defeat to eventual winner of the Prizefighter tournament, Michael Lomax. 

Thompson began the first round in a tentative manner. Mark had been criticised by some for headhunting during his outing with Skuja, so working behind the jab and following in with combinations was a welcome change from looking for a quick blow out. As the round progressed, and with Thompson pushing Dickson onto the backfoot, an accidental clash of heads caused a small cut on the forehead of the Scotsman. 

The second was all about the heavy handed pr4essure shots form Thompson. Thompson began the round working well behind the jab, sometimes doubling up and following with a straight right. Thomspon also worked the body well in an attempt to lower the Scotsman’s hands and  slow down his movement. At the rounds end  Thompson landed a straight right followed by a  left hook which downed Dickson. Dickson rose just after the bell, had there been time left Thompson may well have finished the job. 

The third round saw Thompson look to drag Dickson into the deep waters by reverting back to throwing heavy handed shots. Dickson had seemingly recovered well from the knockdown in previous round and even waved Thompson in as Mark attempted to produce a higher work rate to finish the job. As the round ended and both boxers headed back to the corner Mark looked the more tired. Perhaps Dicksons game plan was to draw Mark into throwing heavy shots and weather the storm. 

The fourth and fifth rounds saw an increase in work rate form Dickson as he began walking Thompson down. Mark boxed well on the outside, firing a jab out whenever Dickson came into range and circling form the outside. Dickson was finding Thompson with increasing regularity and did land a sweet left hook in the fifth to let the Heywood man know he was still in with a shout.

The sixth round was another close session with both fighters applying pressure and exchanging some good flurries. Dickson landed a craking right to the jaw of Thompson against the ropes. Mark once again proved his whiskers were solid as he sent body shots back at the Glasweigan.

Whilst the fight was without doubt a close affair in the middle rounds the telling difference between the two men had always looked to be the power of Thompson. This became the deciding factor in the fight when Thompson landed a crushing left hook to the body of Dickson as the Scotsman had his back to the neutral corner. Dickson immediately winced and dropped his guard, then his knee. It showed great bravery for Dickson to rise from the deck only to receive a couple more shots from Thompson before the referee stepped in. It was clear to everyone in the arena that Dickson was the beaten man at that point and nobody, least of all Dickson himself, contended the stoppage.

Thompsons record now stands at 18-1 (11) whilst Dickson loses his third on the bounce and falls to 15-6-1 (8)

Sam Doleman

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22/10/08

MARK MORAN is just one fight away from a shot at British super-bantamweight champion, Matthew Marsh

The popular scouser puts it all on the line when he risks his English crown against former British title holder Esham Pickering (33-7) at Robin Hood Arena, Wigan on November 7.

Southpaw Moran (10-0-1) showed he is for real in front of 58,000 fans at City of Manchester Stadium in May, claiming the national crown with a ninth round stoppage of Danny Wallace.

Moran, 26, was a top class amateur winning two junior ABA titles, a senior title in 2001 and a Commonwealth Games bronze medal in Manchester a year later.

His co-promoter Steve Wood said:  “He was a top class amateur and is rapidly developing into a very good professional.

“His punch power is getting better and I believe he will stop Esham in what is his biggest ever professional test.

“Provided Mark defeats Esham he is likely to become the mandatory challenge for Marsh’s title very early in the New Year..

Pickering, 32, lost the British title to Marsh in June when the cockney outpointed him over 12 fierce rounds.

In the main event Doncaster’s Andy Bell makes the first defence of his British super-flyweight title when he faces Bristol southpaw Lee Haskins.

Tickets for this action packed night of Britain’s best can be obtained by calling the hotline 0871 226 1508 or from www.frankmaloney.com

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02/10/08

LEADING British light-middleweight title contender Thomas McDonagh will headline the first professional boxing show to be staged in Leigh for more than 60 years.

The former WBU champion will face Doncaster’s former central title holder Jason Rushton (18-5) in six rounder at the Indoor Sports Centre on Sunday October 12.

Promoter Steve Wood believes the slick Mancunian will follow in the footsteps of VIP stable-mate Jamie Moore and capture the British title.

Woods plans to ask the British Boxing Board of Control to make McDonagh (31-1-3), mandatory contender for Ryan Rhodes title.

He said: “McDonagh’s only loss was a controversial one to Wayne Alexander so hopefully the Board will put his name forward.

“He is still only 27 and I believe his best years are still in front of him.”

The last professional show in Leigh was staged on July 27 1948 when Wigan’s Peter Gaskell outpointed Ashton-under-Lyne’s Charlie Noble at the co-op Hall.

And with VIP prospects Martin Murray, Brian Rose, Mike Robinson, John Kays, Carl Dilks and Karl Place also in action the show promises to deliver an afternoon of top class action

Tickets are £30 and £50. They can be purchased from www.vipbe.co.uk or 0161 834 7185

All fighters are available for interview. 

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16/09/08

Jennings powers past Van Emmenis

Liverpool Super Featherweight Lee Jennings powered past John Van Emmines during their contest, scheduled for four three minute rounds, at Robin Park, Wigan on Sunday.

Jennings bossed form the outset and caught Van Emmines with a crisp body shot in the opener which sent a grimace across the face of the Devonshire man. Jennings proceeded to hold centre of the ring and repeatedly land solid shots to both the head and midriff of Van Emmines. Each punch was sent with full force as the Liverpool man sat down on his shots form the outset.

Jennings began the second as he ended the first, working his man and keeping Van Emmines on the back foot, seemingly landing at will against an opponent looking way out of his depth. A right from Jennings was the catalyst for the first knockdown of the fight. Jennings had set the right hook up beautifully by landing a body shot to first lower the guard of his foe. Upon rising to his feet, a beaten Van Emmines was again downed. This time a thunderous straight right did the damage, this time he didn’t rise for more. Van Emmines record now stands at 1-5-1. 

A solid win for Jennings, who rises to 2-0 (1). At 27 Jennings will need to move quickly if he is to realise the potential shown on today’s outing. His tall straight stand up style could cause problems for opponents, but also provide a large target area for scoring punches. An interesting and exciting edition to the VIP stable. One to watch.

Composed Murray looks to come of age

St Helens fan favourite Martin Murray is quickly developing into one of the finest ‘unknown’ prospects in the North West. Murray dismantled his Sheffield opponent, Carl Wild, in the second round of their Super Middleweight contest at Robin Park Arena, Wigan, on Sunday. Coming into the contest Murray was giving away a weight advantage of almost a stone, yet the bout which was scheduled for six three’s was not destined to go the distance.

Murray, who is trained by Oliver Harrison at Olivers gym in Salford, started the fight tentatively by popping out a jab and having a keen look over his opponent. Wilds defence remained tight, keeping the target area to a minimum, yet the relatively inexperienced Murray wasted nothing on arms and gloves. Instead, Murray elected to step back form his opponent and look for new openings. Many prospects would be eager to throw flurries of punches toward a covered opponent on the ropes, but Murray appeared keen not to waste anything.

With the reconnaissance round complete, Murray came out for the second with far more purpose. Both knockdowns were scored in quick succession, and both knockdowns were down to the explosive body punching of Murray. Wild received treatment in the ring following the second knockdown, which was preceded by a straight right to the head which may have caused the damage before the left hook to the body finished the job. Wild falls to 6-9 (1), whilst Murrays record now stands at 8-0 (2).

Murray will without doubt be an interesting addition to the middleweight division. His deceptive knockout ratio could catch a few cold with both of his KO wins being devastating and spectacular. Further development over the coming 12 months could see Murray manoeuvred into some interesting domestic scraps. With underrated power and tidy boxing ability he could shock a few who haven’t had the pleasure of seeing him live.

Chris Johnson - safe yet steady

LIGHT-MIDDLEWEIGHT prospect Chris Johnson gave a safe yet steady performance in outpointing Sutton’s David Kirk over four three-minute rounds at the Robin Park Arena in Wigan on Sunday.

The Manchester fighter got off to a slow start but was in control throughout, peppering ‘Kirky’ with a solid jab and using the ring to display superior footwork.

The first round saw Johnson - who moves to 9-1 (1 KO) - stalking his opponent behind a tight guard.

The second was much the same, though at times Johnson spent more time watching and waiting than punching and pushing forward.

A smattering of lefts to the body towards the end of the round kept ‘Johno’ on top, but it was third that saw him capitalise on his basic early work by stepping up the pace and firing combinations at the limited Kirk (11-71-3).

Kirk then started to rush in and was caught with left hooks and a stiffer jab, but it was the final round that saw both men wake up a little and stir the crowd.

A pedestrian affair, but Johnson always looked the likely winner and came away with a 40-36 verdict.

Professional performance from Godding

THE Lancashire Fusiliers’ rousing fanfare made way for an entertaining four round battle between Ricky Godding and Johnny Greaves at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena on Sunday.

The VIP show proved to be a big hit with the crowd, as did Bolton’s Godding (4-0), whose relaxed entrance gave the impression of a languid fighter.

Not so. Godding used all his 10st 5lbs to push his lighter opponent (Greaves weighed 10st 4lbs) around the ring, pummelling him to the body and head over a hectic first three minutes.

Tall and lean, the 23-year-old really sits down on his punches and punished the cocky Cockney in close, the straight right proving to be his pet punch.

Godding has a very European style, direct and fluid, and he showed more devil in his work from the second round onwards.

A stinging left hook opened Greaves up for more close combinations, though at times the bout became a little untidy, with Ricky frustrated at Greaves’ continual holding.

Godding moved through the gears in the third, while Greaves, now 29, was content to dance around and take as few punches as possible.

Ten seconds of showboating later and the East Ham fighter was on the receiving end of a blistering five punch combination against the ropes, with Godding whipping in body shots from left and right.

Now three rounds behind, it didn’t seem to bother Johnny Greaves, whose attempted Ali shuffle in the fourth gave Godding more impetus. A punishing left hook, followed by a series of rights, left the hapless Londoner staggering around, but he held on to lose a 40-36 decision.

This was a hugely impressive and professional performance from Godding, who has the tools to move in higher circles within the next 12 months.

Sam Doleman & Martin Williams

 

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16/09/08

Matvienko in controversial defeat

 Alex ‘one man riot’ Matvienko suffered the first defeat of his professional career when he faced off against Lee Edwards for the British Masters Light Middleweight title on a VIP promotion, at the Robin Park arena, Wigan, on Sunday.  

Both fighters weighed in at the light middleweight limit of 154lbs in a fight scheduled for ten three minute rounds. With the Robin Park arena buzzing in anticipation the fighters made their way to the ring. Both Edwards and Matvienko looked in superb physical condition, both were trim, and looked mentally prepared to go the ten round distance if required.  

As the first bell rang Matvienko raced out of the traps and began walking Edwards down. Matvienko threw hooks and straights, whilst Edwards counterpunched, bobbed, weaved and backed up. It was evident from the opening minute of the opening stanza that the blueprint for the fight would be the pressure fighting of Matvienko, against the back peddling and counterpunching of Edwards. As the first neared the final thirty seconds Edwards caught Matvienko with a sweet left hook right hook combination. The punches rocked back the head of Matvienko and switched the aggressor into the defender. Edwards pressed, although much of his work caught gloves and arms, whilst Matvienko rode out the final seconds with his back to the ropes. 

No doubt stern words were used by Oliver and Humphrey Harrison in the Matvienko corner between rounds. As the second began the Bolton fighter appeared more tentative. Matvienko continued to press, but without the blatant disregard for ‘educated pressure’ he showed in the first. With barely ten seconds in the round left Matvienko landed a right cross that would shake Edwards to the soles of his boots. The Robin Park Arena roared as Edwards fell back into the ropes, which undoubtedly saved the Sheffield man from a knockdown. Matvienko poured on the pressure as the bell for the end of the second sounded. An argument could be made that Edwards had rode his luck, first saved by the ropes, then saved by the bell. 

The third round brought some stability to the contest. Matvienko continued to march down Edwards and chip away with straights to the body, whilst Edwards countered Matvienko on the way in with some solid looking lead jabs. The fourth began with a bang as Matvienko suffered a cut just above the left eye from an accidental head butt, the blood put Matvienko off his game as he dabbed at the eye, whilst Edwards looked to capitalise by firing out lead jabs, straight rights, then smothering Matvienkos work in close by holding the home fighter. 

The fifth round proved to be crucial as Edwards’ holding and spoiling, coupled with the accidental head butt in the previous round, finally sent Alex over the edge. Edwards, whilst with his back against the ropes, was caught with a scything body shot in the corner. As Matvienko stepped back it was clear Edwards was hurt. His body doubled over to the side, his mouth bit hard on the gum shield and Matvienko moved in. It was at this point Edwards, not for the first time in the contest, held on to Alex and simply wouldn’t let go. Matvienko attempted to wrench his arm free, when this didn’t work he stupidly resorted to driving the head into the face of Edwards. Steve Gray was left with no option but to deduct a point from Matvienko, and give Edwards a further thirty seconds to recover as he lectured the Bolton fighter.

The sixth and seventh rounds were scrappy and tight affairs. The referee would need to decide if he preferred the man who was forcing the fight and throwing leather, in Matvienko, or the man who was countering but landing the cleaner shots, Edwards.

The eighth round was stereotypical of Alex Matvienkos fighting style. A toe to toe battle with both men throwing hooks and uppercuts, mixing nicely form the head to body. Alex refused to take a backward step and looked to put the round in the bank with an increased work ethic. Edwards, for the eighth at least, decided to negate his most effective weapon, the jab, and instead trade with Matvienko up close. 

As the fight moved into the championship rounds, in this case in point the ninth and tenth, Matvienko had realised he needed to outwork and outgun Edwards to win the rounds. If Edwards negated his jab in the eighth, he didn’t replicate this flaw in the ninth. Edwards tried to establish the jab early, Matvienko tried to negate Edwards greatest asset by slipping the punches, then starting to fire his shots off on the inside. Three hooks in succession by Matvienko appeared to stun Edwards, who fired back with a left jab – right cross combination only to find the gloves of Matvienko held high.

 Matvienko increased the pace in the tenth and final round. A left hook sent Edwards into the ropes but further flurries by Matvienko were wide and somewhat inaccurate. With both fighters finally looking like they were feeling the pace of the frantic contest Matvienko appeared to again be forcing Edwards to fight his fight. Edwards returned fire, but couldn’t deter the unbeaten Bolton fighter who surely outgunned and outworked his opponent over the final three minutes.

 Both fighters touched gloves at the final bell, but, as referee Steve Gray raised the hand of Edwards a chorus of boo’s echoed around the Robin Park Arena. Both Oliver Harrison and Alex Matvienko looked unhappy (to say the least) with the decision, as did many of the fans sporting “One man riot” T-shirts. 

The head butt, and subsequent point deduction, in the fifth had proved costly for Alex, referee Steve Gray had scored the contest 95-94 in favour of Edwards, who now sports a record of 8-1 (1). Matvienko falls to 11-1-2 (4) following his first professional defeat.  

 I had scored the contest 96-95 for Matvienko (97-95 before the point deduction). Alex forced the fight throughout, and whilst some of the rounds were tough to call, I felt Alex had done enough to gain a share in some of the rounds Gray had clearly given to Edwards. The rounds Alex had won, he’d won big. The only explanation is for Gray to have given almost all of the nip-tuck close rounds to the visiting fighter. A rematch will be something I’m sure ‘the one man riot’ will be looking for, Edwards, probably not so much.

Sam Doleman

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01/08/08

ALEX MATVIENKO is on the verge of becoming Bolton’s next professional boxing champion.

Matvienko, get his big chance when he boxes Lee Edwards for the vacant British Masters light-middleweight title at Robin Park Arena, Wigan on Sunday September 14. 

Commonwealth lightweight champion Amir Khan is the talk of the town, but one-time sparring partner, Alex is out to grab some glory for himself in his ten round tussle.

Matvienko, unbeaten in 13 professional contests hopes victory over his Sheffield rival will bring him closer to a crack at British title holder, Ryan Rhodes. 

The 30-year-old said: “A title fight is what everyone wants to win. This belt would mean everything to me, and more. 

“I’m not saying I am the next world champion, but if I would love to go on and fight for the the British title. 

“I have seen fighters like Marcus Portman get chances at British and Commonwealth titles and I think I am in that league. 

“Obviously Amir has done superbly well for Bolton and we’re all proud of him, but I would love to win some kind of title. 

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved because I never took boxing serious until I was 23-years-old. Before that I was always in the gym but after training I would pop off for a pint and pie.” 

Matvienko, who makes ends meet at a private fitness instructor and coaching white collar boxers is currently recharging his batteries in Spain before knuckling down for his big afternoon. 

He added: “The fight is eight weeks away, but I’ve been running on holiday and my weight is already under 12 stone. 

“I just want to do as well as possible and you can see that when I’m training. When I’m preparing for a fight I live, eat and sleep boxing.” 

Edwards, 24, is certainly a tough opponent for Matvienko and tasted defeat just once in eight professional contests. 

Also on the bill are some of the brightest prospects in the North West including Martin Murray (St Helens), Carl Dilks (Liverpool), Jack Armfield (Blackpool), Chris Johnson (Preston), Scott Mitchell (Bolton), Rick Godding (Bolton) and Lee Jennings (Liverpool)

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12/12/07

Jack Arnfield’s impressive start to his professional career continued on Saturday with a methodical points win over the hilarious Ben Hudson.

Tall and rangy, Arnfield out-boxed Cambridge’s Catweazle throughout, scoring a unanimous victory over the portly pugilist.

Jack’s record now stands at 3-0, and he has great potential. At over 6ft tall he is huge for a light-middleweight and has the potential to step up in the future, but for now he plans to concentrate on learning the trade and improving his style.

Hudson did very little over the four rounds. He can take a punch and was entertaining for the fans but he is hugely overweight and came to survive. The odd looping right hand landed but nothing troubled the young prospect from blackpool, whose jab peppered Hudson’s bearded chins throughout.

Another quickly improving fighter is 25-year-old super bantamweight Mark Moran. Weighing 8st 11lbs, he dominated game Iordan Vasiliev, confusing the Bulgarian with his impressive hand speed.

The visitor (2-5) landed several hooks and his come-forward style provided Mark with a test, but the unbeaten Liverpudlian (8-0-1) got down to business straight away with rapid jabs and hooks of his own.

He was quicker to the punch and decked Vasiliev with a crippling body shot in the third. Vasiliev got up but went down again soon after when Moran backed him up and punished him with another lft to the body.

This time, it was all over.

Another VIP winner on the night was Barnsley stylist Gary Sykes.

‘Five Star’ got the better of Wolverhampton’s Carl Allen over six rounds in this lightweight contest, his jab and quickness proving too much on the night.

Every round was pretty similar, with Sykes dipping in and out, tattooing the durable Allen - who was contesting his 86th fight - with fast right hands, though none really had the desired impact.

Sykes does everything well and this was a fair performance. He perhaps just needs to show a little more devil in his work. Referee Phil Edwards agreed, offering Gary a clear 60-54 points victory.

By Martin Williams

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12/12/07

ALI Nuumbembe suffered a huge setback in his bid for a world title shot in losing his Commonwealth welterweight title to gritty Clayton's Craig Watson at Wigan’s Robin Park Centre on Saturday night.

Ali was cut badly in the third round after a clash of heads on the inside and left with a gaping slice across his left eye.

Until then he had enjoyed plenty of success behind the jab, though Watson had his moments thanks to a succession of strong left hooks.

A lot of his work was on the referee's blind side however, including head work that opened the wound up even further.

Ali stalked throughout and was by far the more aggressive of the two, he won the fourth with a composed jab but the cut ruined any chance he had of defending the belt.

Craig targeted the area with right jabs. His in-out style was negative but did the job as Ali could do little to prevent a gap opening up on the scorecards.

Watson took the fifth and sixth courtesy of a succession of right hands, yet the Namibian kept coming, his bravery impressing everyone in attendance.

The referee finally called an end to the fight after 24 seconds of the ninth round. Nuumbembe - whose record now stands at 18-3 - looked heartbroken, but has vowed to come back strong and hopes for a rematch next year.

By Martin Williams

http://www.alinumber1.com

Official website of Welterweight Champ Ali Nuumbembe.

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05/12/07

ALI Nuumbembe won’t show his next opponent any Christmas spirit when they meet at Wigan’s Robin Park Centre on Saturday night.

The genial Namibian faces Craig Watson (11-1) in the first defence of the Commonwealth welterweight title he snatched from Kevin Anderson in February, and plans to ruin the festive season for the Boltonian.

Watson is a solid fighter with a good chin. He is young, has been very active and really fancies his chances.

But the Silent Assassin, now based in Glossop, has prepared well and says he is ready for anything.

“Training’s gone very well, I’m ready for this,” says Nuumbembe, whose last fight was cancelled due to the sad passing of his father.

“I’m putting the final touches to my preparations and am ready to go 12 rounds. He’s a tough kid, he comes to fight, but I'm prepared to go the whole way. We’ll see if he goes the 12 (rounds). It might not last that long, I might take him out.”

Nuumbembe has amassed an impressive 18-2 record, his only losses coming to fellow countryman Bethuel Ushona, and the talented Ajose Olusegun, having taking on the latter at just a few days notice.

Watson does pose a threat - his points win over domestic foe Michael Lomax was hugely impressive and recent appearances on Sky have improved the southpaw’s stock.

He is not the mandatory for the title but fits the bill and appeals more to the television giant’s British audience.

Whatever the opponent, Nuumbembe know he can not afford to slip up if he is to further his career.

“The mandatory for this title is Ghanaian, and I will probably face him next should I get past Watson, which I will,” says Ali.

“This defence is more for the TV side of things, but he is a good fighter.”

The loss of his beloved father has only served to toughen Nuumbembe’s resolve and drive him forward. He promises to win victory for him this weekend.

“He would have wanted me to fight, he would be pushing me to do this.

“I’ve been wanting to get back in the ring and this is the right time. I’m 29 now and if I want to get a shot at a world title I have to act fast.

“I plan to do this as soon as I can, and I’ll do it for the many people who’ve supported me.

“I would like to thank them all, I hope they will be there on Saturday and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

By Martin Williams

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22/11/07

ATTENTION! Rising super middleweight star Carl Dilks plans to move through the ranks with a victory over Brian Wood at Liverpool’s Olympia Theatre next Friday (November 30).

‘Dynamite’ Dilks has amassed an impressive 4-0 record since leaving the Army and turning pro in May - including the four-round demolition of Carl Nicholson in Wigan last time out.

He has his sights firmly set on Wood (1-1), but is already looking forward to battling for titles in the near future.

“I’m pleased with how my career is going since signing with Steve Wood, I'm getting some good fights,” says the Liverpudlian, trained by Carl Ince at Bolton’s Elite gym.

“I was at Collyhurst but was left to my own devices, they just used me for sparring really. Then Carl got hold of me and I joined him in the gym. I haven’t looked back and am enjoying being a pro.”

Six years in the Army - where Carl ran up a 20-8 amateur record, prepared him for the turn.

He has the style and power to go far, but admits having to fight two-minute rounds have hampered his progress.

“My last fight was four three-minute rounds and gave me a chance to get into my stride,” said Carl, dad to four-month-old Ebony.

“By the time you get into it the bell goes, so against Nicholson I felt much better. That extra minute means a lot, and that’s why the finish came in the fourth."

From the age of 13, Carl spent most of his time in the gym, to the delight of his dad and discomfort of his worried mum.

The ‘Dynamite’ nickname stems from his childhood pals, who can’t possibly have known their mate would go on to possess such power in both fists.

“It’s a handy name, I’ve had it for many years,” says the 24-year-old. “I guess it’s even handier now I’m boxing.

“This is what I love. I boxed for the Army at Aldershot and would do my normal everyday duties at Catterick.

“I enjoyed it but the time came to turn professional and I’ve grabbed it with both hands.

“I’ve had four fights since May and it’s been a real learning curve. I’m confident that I have the ability to rise to British and Commonwealth titles in the next few years. I also think I can be world champion, I think I’m better than British level. That’s the dream and we’ll see what happens.”

We shall see.

Inspired by modern day greats Ray Leonard and Felix Trinidad, Dilks has a long way to go but is marching in the right direction. Indeed, he even fancies a scrap against his all-time hero.

“Me and Trinidad would be a great battle, I'd love to fight him because we’d have a real tear-up,” he laughs.

“Seriously though, I’m concentrating on Brian Wood and am totally focused. Training has gone really well. I’ve made the weight easily and am peaking. I look forward to another good performance.”

By Martin Williams

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31/10/07

Moore given Facey scare

Jamie Moore was given a real scare by Sheffield-based Andrew Facey at the Robin Park arena in Wigan last Friday night.

Moore finally felled the challenger with 46 seconds of the 11^th  round remaining. The victory took Moore to 28-3 (19) and surely brought the curtain down on what has been a lengthy British title reign.  

The first round began with Moore looking to dig the southpaw jab to the body. Facey seemed content moving backwards whilst looking to catch Jamie on the way in with his straight left-right combination. Up close Facey looked to utilise his long arms to hold Moore and nullify Jamie’s solid work on the inside. Facey’s big body was clearly an early target for Moore, and Team Facey were well aware of the potential Moore body attack. 

Andrew was adamant to be first to the punch during the opening minutes of the second round. As Moore drove in looking to close the distance, Facey would throw a one-two, or a one, two, three then move backwards again. A blueprint for the next few rounds was set as Facey ensured anything up close was smothered, and when at range he would be throwing punches whilst back pedaling.

The third round continued as the second ended, although Jamie did show some feints and dips on the way in. Facey forced the action and took the centre of the ring for the last minute of the round, something which turned the tide in his favour when he faced Gary Woolcombe. His corner could be heard to shout “Spear him with the jab ,Andrew”.

Jamie’s punches seemed to lack a little snap by the middle of the fourth round. The head movement had once again become non-existent, which led to Facey landing with relative ease against a fighter whose defence had been so tight against Mathew Macklin some twelve months ago.

The fifth round saw Facey back Moore to the ropes and unleash a barrage of punches. Jamie lent back into the ropes and covered up, nothing much landed to head or body although the barrage awoke the crowd, especially when Moore fired back with a left to the chin of Facey. The right-left combination sent the challenger back onto the ropes himself.

Moore came out for the sixth firing. A straight left sent Facey stumbling back, and before he could re-set himself Moore had closed the gap and fired in another couple of straight shots, before Facey once against denied him the time and space up close by holding. The message form Moore was clear, he wanted centre of the ring and he was prepared to expand energy to get it. 

With the centre of the ring firmly in his grasp Moore looked to harass and dog Facey as the Sheffield man backed up towards the ropes, firing out the jab in an attempt to keep Moore at bay. At the end of the seventh Moore looked visibly tired in the corner as Oliver Harrison informed him it was time to finish the contest. 

The eight and ninth round saw Moore try to tuck up tight and come form low to fire shots to Facey. The battle for the centre of the ring had turned again with Facey the aggressor come the start of the ninth round. Moore appeared to stumble backwards following an exchange, but to me this looked more like fatigue than a solid shot. Facey looked to follow up but Moore bobbed and weaved on the ropes before sending a superb right hand straight down the middle, and into the upright chin of Facey. Another stunning right cross followed by a left hook sent Facey sprawling sideways into the ropes. Facey rose at eight, but as the action continued a re-energised Moore fired a right hand to Facey whos attempts to fire back were looking increasingly cumbersome. With only  a minute of the round to go Facey attempted to hold as the Salford man piled on the pressure.  Moore sensibly took his time to pick his shots, Facey somehow saw out the round. 

Moore looked calm and composed in the tenth, as if a weight had been taken from his shoulders. Facey on the other hand looked, for the first time in the contest, like he could taste defeat. A lead right hook once again sent spray form the forehead of Facey as Moore circled and preyed on the Sheffield challenger. 

A right hook at the start of the eleventh round was the beginning of the end for Facey. Moore had finally found his range and appeared able to close the space down whilst getting his shots off. Facey once again tasted the canvas after just seventy seconds of the round, he rose at the count of eight but the end was inevitable. Facey again hit the canvas, although this time referee Howard Foster decided it was more down to fatigue than a solid punch from Moore. The contest was finally over as Moore landed two straight right shots and Facey slumped to the Canvas. There was no need for howard Foster to administer a count on this occasion, the fight had finally gone from Andrew Facey.     

Following the fight Jamie was brutally honest about his performance. 

“I was very rusty, and you can’t be rusty against someone as elusive and awkward as Andrew Facey. Once again though I stuck it out and managed to grind out a victory. You have to be on your mettle to beat Andrew Facey and tonight I did just enough. I was far from my best. One thing is for sure I’ll be 100% for the European title fight” 

In a disappointing end to what was surely the final chapter of Mooresy’s domestic storey, Jamie once again proved he can dig deep and pick up a victory when the things aren’t going to plan. Facey, on the other hand, further raised his profile within the division. Whilst Facey v Moore 3 isn’t something that appeals to me in the near future, I for one hope the board give Facey an opportunity once Jamie decides to release his stranglehold on the domestic strap. It’ll take a superb domestic fighter to beat the awkward and always game Andrew “Smiley” Facey at light middleweight, that’s for sure. As for Jamie, a contest with Zaurbek Baysangurov is surely on the horizon…. watch this space.

By Sam Doleman

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30/10/07

MARK Thompson needed all his bravery, stamina and grit to force a decision win over tough welterweight Frank Harroche Horta at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena last Friday.

Mark had been expecting to fight Kevin McIntytre, then Chris Saunders, but wound-up battling a cagy southpaw with a good chin and plenty of ambition.

Thompson ate far too many jabs and looked exhausted from round five onwards but his courage and power kept him in the fight when Harroche seemed to be edging the early rounds.

The Frenchman gave a good account of himself throughout. He was dangerous until the final bell and looked the fresher over eight rounds.

But Mark’s will to win and diligent attitude saw him land regularly with left and right hooks, though he did have a tendency to reach with his shots on tiring.

In the first round the Heywood banger dug in with body punches and took the fight to Harroche, trading from the outset.

Mark’s guard seemed non-existent and he relied heavily on his terrific chin, walking through a series of rights in the second and landing several of his own.

The Frenchman had the initiative however and pushed forward.

Thompson looked ragged but soon regained composure and from the mid-point he was the boss.

He came out firing in the sixth but was a little reckless, they stood in the centre of the ring and began to trade again. It was the same story in the seventh when Mark’s workrate stole the points and Harroche began to feel his power.

They embraced at the start of the eighth and gave the crowd another three hectic minutes of lefts and rights. Few jabs were thrown, there were more lunges than uppercuts and Mark looked exhausted, but he still managed to take the round with the occasional flurry.

Referee Phil Edwards raised the arm of Mark Thompson and his Gallic foe seemed to accept defeat, or was he confused? Less than a minute later he was bouncing around the arena shouting expletives. He obviously speaks a little English because I understood much of it, albeit too blue to publish here!

Mark reflected on the fight with his usual honesty.

"I was expecting to fight a British eliminator and it got cancelled, then an area title fight, which also got cancelled," said the 26-year-old.

"It was a hard, tough fight tonight. I was not on top form but I was catching him and knew I couldn't take a step back. I've got the heart to carry on, no matter how many times you hit me I'll keep coming, and coming and coming. You have to put me out to beat me - I'm here to fight."

Thompson’s record now stands at 13-1 (7 KOs) and he is looking for a British title eliminator in the coming months.

By Martin Williams

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30/10/07

VIP’s growing stable of boxers were given a boost during last Friday’s terrific undercard.

Super featherweight Mark Moran looked good in defeating unbeaten prospect Gavin Reid over four rounds.

Moran came in at 8st 12lbs and looked sharp throughout, catching Reid with a burst of rights in a chaotic first round.

His jab came into play in the second, though Reid seemed to be first to the punch.

He fought hard but Moran’s combinations were too much for him. There were no single shots from the Liverpool stylist, just a nice mix to the body and head that broke Gavin down over the final two rounds.

A flurry of hooks in the last round punctuated proceedings and gave Mark Moran a well-deserved points victory, stretching his record to 7-0 (1 KO).

In a light-heavyweight bout, fellow Liverpudlian Carl Dilks (12st 4lbs) flattened game challenger Lee Nicholson in the fourth round of their contest.

‘Dynamite’ Dilks has a tight, orthodox style and does everything right. His defence is rock solid and he displays a varied punch selection. The only complaint can be that he is to safety first.

Over three rounds he looked quick and cutting but lacked any devil. As soon as he opened up in the fourth he dropped Nicholson twice with a couple of left-right combinations each time. He has a bright future.

By Martin Williams

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26/10/07

Gomez to continue following defeat.

The turbulent career of the Mancunian Mexican Michael Gomez is set to continue for yet another high energy chapter.

Gomez, 30, whose defeat to Carl Johanneson last Friday (October 19) left him with a 34-8 (24) record, is not ready to throw in the sombrero just yet.

A thrilling contest came to a premature and controversial end with referee Mickey Vann stopping Gomez on his feet with only 10 seconds of the 6th remaining. Both fighters had put everything into the contest, and a rematch will surely be mooted, regardless of whether Johanneson defeats Kevin Mitchell in December.

Genuine bad blood had emerged between the two fighters during their pre-fight publicity meeting, and again during the contests weigh in. This led to a barnstorming opening round, during which Gomez took a firm grip on the contest and with it the ascendancy. A series of uppercuts from the outset bloodied the nose and face of Johanneson, who seemed to lack a little of his snap with his quick-fire responses. Gomez had visibly intimidated the challenger, who covered up to ride through the first round.

The second began in similar fashion. The Manchester man remained on top of his opponent, he didn’t give Johanneson time or space to adjust. Uppercut after hook was drilled home and the fight looked to be unbelievably  one sided.  Gomez had apparently rolled back the years, he was looking sharp, aggressive and single minded.

The third round saw Mike explode form the corner again, but unlike the previous two rounds Johanneson was able to fire off a jab, followed by a  straight. Slowly but surely he was finding his feet in the fight. Johanneson looked the happier man at the end of the third, he had for the first time in the contest matched Gomez for work rate. It was, however, his accuracy that would prove to be his greatest weapon.

During the fourth and fifth rounds Johanneson took the ascendancy back. He fired accurate shots to the temple of Gomez, followed with short uppercuts These rocked the neck of the challenger back. Mike’s response was to keep his chin tucked in under his guard, and attempt to march through the champion's best and get his own shots off.  Both fighters were taking big shots and the bout was quickly turning into a fight of the year contender, something many expected. 

The sixth round was to be the final in this thrilling contest. Johanneson dropped Gomez with around 25 seconds of the round left. Gomez had taken a flurry of big shots at the end of the 5th round and had been beaten to the punch consistently throughout the sixth. Gomez rose from the knockdown and took his mandatory eight. The action commenced but referee Mickey Vann called a halt to proceedings as Johanneson landed another big right hand. Gomez was standing, and there’s no doubt he was ready and willing to return fire and remain in the trenches. Should Vann have left the Mancunian warrior continue until he couldn’t, or was the referee right to call a halt to his latest title tilt? That’s something most have been undecided on since the controversial finish. A blessing in disguise, maybe? 

Gomez proved during the contest that he is far from done. His performance will have impressed many, especially considering the job Johanneson had done over his domestic rivals (Corcoran, Fehintola & Burns), and the fact Mike had fought a mere 6 rounds since his retirement following his controversial defeat to Peter Mcdonagh.  

The team at VIP have assured me Mike will be back. He’ll fight a couple of six round contests, before looking to make another assault on the British title. Carl Johanneson and Kevin Mitchell are due to square off in early 2008, a fight against the winner could be a feasible contest. Another name that could appear on the radar of team Gomez is Femi Fehintola, the current English super featherweight champion. One thing is for sure, you’ve not seen the end of the Mancunian Mexican…. 

Sam Doleman

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18/10/07

***** 5 STAR IS PUMPED *****

 DEWSBURY stylist Gary Sykes plans to blacken the eyes of a Hurricane tomorrow night (Friday), when he takes on Dwayne Hill at the Doncaster Dome.

Dwayne ‘Hurricane’ Hill has a solid 8-3 record and is a durable opponent, but Sykes has a bright future in the super featherweight division and won’t let anything - or anyone - stand in his way.

His ‘Five Star’ nickname refers to the stars on his arm, and the performances the 23 year-old has given since turning pro last year. He had a 12 month lay-off which frustrated, but since signing with the Steve Wood stable the popular Yorkshireman has enjoyed a rich run of form.

“I’ve had three stars tattooed on my arm. One for my first junior ABA title, one from boys clubs and one for my first senior ABA title. I’ll add two more along the way - the British and world titles - to make it five,” says Gary, whose record stands at 5-0 after a dazzling performance last time out against Dennis Sirjatovs.

“Training has gone very well for this fight. Tonight (Wednesday) I’ll just do some light work on the pads and relax, but I’m ready for this one. I can’t wait to get in there and do the business.”

And what does he make of his opponent?

“I know he’s from Sheffield and he’s a good fighter. The last time I saw him was on the bill at Barnsley when he was pulled out of the fight for some reason (Hill was retired after three rounds against Danny Wallace in July) when he seemed to be winning the fight.

“From what I’ve seen on video he looks pretty good and has a decent record with eight wins and three losses. He won his first six as well and is pretty young.

“He will come to fight, which is what I want. I would much rather that than some journeyman.”

There has been a buzz around Sykes in recent months. Trainer Julian McGowan has helped develop Gary’s slick style, which has won fans and praise within boxing circles.

“That’s nice to know, it’s nice to know people support you,” says Sykes, who trains at the gyms of Crawford Ashley and Chris Ashton, in Linthwaite and Dewsbury

“I’m moving in the right direction now and learning all the time. This is my first six-rounder and I’m very confident I’ll win. If I can’t beat this guy I’m going nowhere, these are the guys you have to beat.

“Don’t get me wrong he is a good fighter but I plan to make it to the top-tier and he’s in my way.”

By Martin Williams

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11/10/07

The Pryce is wrong .....

Talk of a match-up between light middleweight kings Jamie Moore and Bradley Pryce is just that - talk.

Pryce is on a roll having secured six successive wins following the demolition of brittle Martin Concepcion at the weekend, and many are labelling him the best in Britain.

His impressive performances of late have impressed fight fans, but a dust-up with Moore is surely a bridge too far for the Newbridge man? Apparently not.

Indeed, Pryce has made no mention of fighting the Salford southpaw. Instead, he wants to face Vernon Forrest in 2008 for his WBC belt, and says promoter Frank Warren can deliver the shot he feels he deserves.

Is this the same man who reportedly avoided Jamie Moore earlier this year?

Moore - who is in training for a British title defence against Andrew Facey on October 26 - finds the entire situation amusing.

“There has been a lot of talk and a buzz about me and Pryce but people are getting excited over nothing,” says Jamie.

“A lot of people seem to have forgotten that he actually pulled out of fighting me earlier this year on the day of the purse bids. I’ve heard that his trainer Enzo Calzaghe won’t put his fighters in with men they can’t beat, and that seems to be the case here.

“He’s looked good in his last couple of fights, and no offence to Martin Concepcion, but he’s a limited fighter with a suspect chin. Concepcion did well to beat (Matthew) Hall but I felt Hall underestimated him.

“Pryce is fighting out of his weight category, he’s a welterweight at best, so for people to be talking about him as the best light-middleweight in Britain makes me laugh.”

But what if Moore were to face the 'Sugar Sweet' 26-year-old?

“I’d just be too big, too strong and far too clever for him,” says Jamie, whose record stands at 27-3 (18 KOs) after a points victory over Andres Sebastian Lujan in April.

“He’s winning fights on experience, by out-manning his opponents, but I’d outgun him. I have more experience than he does.

“Pryce is doing well for himself so good luck to him, but he wouldn’t beat me and talk of him fighting for a world title is ridiculous.”

Bradley Pryce may hold the Commonwealth title but Moore has bigger fish to batter.

He takes on Andrew Facey for the second time, at the Robin Park Arena in Wigan later this month, and promises his fans a stellar performance before a mooted showdown with European champion Zaurbek Baysangurov.

“I’m well prepared,” he says. “When I found out I was going back in with Facey I was a little disappointed but quickly got down to business.

“I am training hard and totally focused on him, and despite what happened last time (Moore won in seven) I will not take him for granted.

“He’s an awkward customer, nobody has ever looked good fighting him, but it doesn’t matter to me because I’m head and shoulders above any other light middleweight in the country and am ready to prove it again.

“I beat him four years ago but I was just a kid. I’m a much better fighter now.”

Moore never looks past his next opponent or takes success for granted, despite being an odds-on favourite. However, should he prevail in his next outing the stage is set for Baysangurov and bigger fights.

“I’m looking forward to this European shot, it’s been a long time coming,” says Jamie.

“He is a good fighter, he’s solid and typically east European in style, but I have no worries. I’m a better boxer, I have more all-round ability and I can punch. I would set a pace he couldn't cope with.

“He’s only had 16 fights so I have much more experience, and if we were to get home advantage as well what a tremendous night that would be. I’d love that.”

Jamie Moore could be just two fights away from realising his dream. If he gets past Facey and navigates his way to victory against the Russian Baysangurov, there is talk of him, rather than Bradley Pryce, having a crack at Forrest’s WBC title.

“That’s been my ambition since I was a  young lad, since I got into boxing. I’d certainly fancy my chances, Forrest is not getting any younger and I thought (Carlos) Baldomir was tailor-made for him. I won’t be.

“That’s a fight I would love, they only have to say the word and I’d be there.”

By Martin Williams

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28/09/07

Jamie Moore - Warrior

Think Jamie Moore and one word springs to mind  - ‘Warrior’.

And after meeting the Salford-born powerhouse at Oliver’s gym this week, for a brief chat ahead of his second meeting with respected domestic foe Andrew Facey on October 26, you can add the words ‘honest’, ‘frustrated’ and ‘prepared’ to the list.

Moore has experienced a summer of discontent, but it’s not the bad weather that grazed the nerves of the VIP star’s season.

 It is a series of knockbacks and illnesses which have left the 29-year-old with a bitter taste in the mouth.

Indeed, when I refer to the summer he balks at the notion, referring instead to two years of trials and tribulations that were nothing to do with him, issues that were out of his chiselled fighting hands.

An ill-timed bout of flu put paid to a July meeting with Vincent Vuma, and a shoulder after the Matthew Macklin fight thwarted the chance to lift him up the WBC rankings, but it appears he will get his chance soon, as he is mandatory for the European title and will move into the WBC top 5 should he emerge victorious.

“It’s been a tough time for me, I’ve had to be very, very patient,” says Moore, whose record stands at 27-3 (18 KOs) after a points victory over Andres Sebastian Lujan in April.

“Its been a frustrating two years, never mind the summer, its been bobbins”

“I’ve been treading water and it has been very hard for me”

“I’m fighting Facey again, its not the position I wanted to be in at this point in my career, but it's been out of my hands."

Stablemate Mark Thompson stepped in at just six days notice when Jamie was forced to pull out of the Vuma fight with a virus, leaving Thompson to give a determined, gritty and impressive performance in losing to the solid South African at Wigan’s Robin Park Centre.

The Heywood banger is now pushing for a British title fight while Jamie is left to wait he refuses to underestimate Facey, despite having beaten him four years ago.

“I train hard for every opponent, but am confident I’ll win. Training is going very well and I’m in great shape,” he says.

“Arguably the toughest fight of Jamie’s career to date was the thrilling demolition of Matthew Macklin last September.

The Birmingham fighter is now operating at middleweight, and Jamie insists that is a rematch he might fancy.

“If Macklin wins his next fight and gets a European title shot I’d consider fighting him should he win the belt,” he says.

“It wouldn’t be a problem for me moving up a weight because it means I would be able to eat my tea properly!

“Whatever happens though I’m looking forward to the Facey fight but I need to get my career moving, and quickly.” 

By Sam Doleman

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28/09/07

One man riot steels the show

Alex ‘one man riot’  Matvienko stole the show at the Robin Park arena, Wigan, on Saturday night. Bolton’s Matvienko outpointed Martin Marshall, of Sunderland, in what was somewhat of a grudge match following the pairs first meeting back in July of this year. Their previous contest had ended in a controversial draw, with Marshall spending much of the fight on the back foot. Gym talk before the rematch had rumours of the Sunderland man claiming it would be different this time, that he would come to fight, and come to fight he did.

The bout erupted into action inside the first twenty seconds with Matvienko driving Marshall back to the ropes, only for a clash of heads to open up a cut just above the Bolton mans right eye. The cut clearly disturbed Matvienko, as he dabbed away at the eye and slowed his pace, Marshall grew in confidence and pressurised Alex. It was clear the rumours Marshall had come to stand his ground this time were true. Matvienko landed some solid body shots around the side, and Marshall responded in kind with a flurry of hooks. The referee warned Marshall for the use of the head toward the end of the first as the Sunderland man seemed to look at opening the Matvienko cut a little more. As the first round ended the contest had already generated an electric atmosphere around the arena. Stark contrast to the pair’s first encounter.

I was keen at the start of the second to spot Nigel Hardman’s handy work on Alex’s cut eye. I personally felt the cut had affected his performance in the first round, he appeared worried by the blood, and certainly lost concentration when dabbing at the troublesome eye. Alex later confirmed he’d lost sight in the eye for the duration of the first, fortunately the corner were able to stem the flow of blood, and Alex regained his vision for the second. Marshall once again came from the corner with all guns blazing. A counter straight right from Matvienko snapped the head of Marshall back, but still the Sunderland man applied pressure in what was a frantic round. Alex was warned for the free use of his head mid way through the second, and the blood stained contestants traded almost shot for shot. Marshall ended the round with a quick fire flurry of hooks and uppercuts to the head of Matvienko.

A sharp left hook at the start of the third appeared to re-open the cut above Matvienko’s eye. Having scored the first round a draw, and the second to Marshall, I realised Alex couldn’t afford to lose another round. Doing so would leave him needing to win each of the final three rounds in order to win the contest on my card. But this time Matvienko wasn’t distracted by the cut. A straight right once again rocked back the head of  Marshall, and whilst some body shots were fired back, a series of uppercuts on the inside landed for Matvienko. Matvienko had claimed the centre of the ring, and began to control the fight whilst stalking Marshall who retreated to the ropes. Once in close Matvienko edged the inside work, whilst holding his guard solid for what was returning.

The fourth began much as the third ended. With the pro Matvienko crowd willing his every punch, the frantic pace continued. A left jab, right cross combination sent Marshall’s gum shield flying from his mouth. Indications that Matvienko’s training regime was coming to fruition was also apparent as Marshall began to breathe a little harder. Marshall complained twice about low blows, with at least one looking on or above the waist. Referee Phil Edwards warned the Bolton man to keep his shots up, although common sense was also employed, and unlike their first encounter no point was taken. Another round to Matvienko not only put him in the driving seat on my card, but also swung the momentum his way.

In his first time past four three’s Matvienko cemented his dominance in the fight outworking Marshall in the fifth. Many of Marshall’s shots were hitting gloves, whilst Alex was landing hooks to the head and body. Matvienko remained the boss in the centre of the ring, often stalking Marshall onto the ropes before unleashing a series of left and right body hooks right around the side of Marshall’s guard.

The final round saw the Matvienko Marshall grudge match wear on. Marshall’s stamina was clearly inferior to Matvienko’s. Marshall gave his all, but there was clearly something missing from his work. Earlier in the fight his jab kept Alex at bay. In the final three this wasn’t as evident. Matvienko’s offensive barrage ploughed mercilessly on.  Marshall had his moments in the round, but his work was scrappy and lacked the snap of the early sessions. Matvienko’s work was cleaner and more precise, his defence was also visibly the solider of the two. Words were exchanged between the two, but the Bolton man came off the better during the exchanges.

At the final Bell referee Phil Edwards raised the hand of Matvienko, only for Marshall to show his disappointment by leaving the ring and refusing hand shakes with his opponent. Marshall returned to the ring following a swift conversation with his own cornermen. MC Michael Pass confirmed referee Phil Edwards had scored the contest 59-55 in favour of the Bolton man who improves his record to 8-0-2 (2). Marshall on the other hand falls to 8-10-3 (0).

By Sam Doleman

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27/09/07

“Someone’s gonna get hurt, and it aint gonna be me” – Michael Gomez 

The latest comeback of Michael Gomez has spanned a mere six rounds over two fights. Now, the original sombrero wielding Mancunian Mexican, faces Carl "Ingemar" Johanneson on October 19th. The fight, at Doncaster dome, will be contested over twelve rounds for the British title. A title Gomez claims is his property.

I caught up with Gomez at the Robin Park arena, Wigan, last Saturday (September 22^nd) . A show Gomez was due to headline alongside VIP promotions stable mate Alex Matvienko. Gomez had understandably dropped out of his fight due to the opportunity of contesting the British title. In his previous fight Mike had been cut above both eyes in the first round by the inexperienced Youssef Al Hamidi. It was decided the chance couldn’t be taken for this to happen again, and so Gomez would stay out of the ring until the end of October.

I’d sat with Mike during Brian Rose’s contest with Lee Noble. The energy and passion Gomez displayed whilst willing his training partner (Rose) through the fight was reminiscent of his past fights. In between his frantic coaching Mike would sit down and suddenly appear calm and composed, until the next exchange, during which he’d be out of his seat willing his compatriot to sink hooks to the body, or to use head movement. My interview with Mike would have to wait until the end of the evening.

Mike returned to ringside for the interview during a break in the evenings action. Alex Matvienko had just emerged from the ring victorious following his hard fought points win over Martin Marshall – a Michael Gomez type affair if ever there was one. I knew Mike would be fired up. As he took his seat he turned to me and grinned, before exclaiming “Someone’s gonna get hurt, and it aint gonna be me”. This was typical Gomez, upfront, confident and straight to the point.

Since joining Bobby Rimmer Gomez has been more of an elder statesman of the gym, passing on advice to his stablemates, and helping them during technical sparring sessions. I enquired how his training had been going.

“Training is going really well. I was supposed to be fighting tonight, so the weight is virtually bang on a full 6 weeks from fight night. The diet’s keeping the weight off, and still giving me all the energy I need to train. I’ve had a couple of nights off the running this week to make sure I don’t burn out. I know a lot of fighters say this, but I truly am going to be in one of the best shapes of my life. I’m ready to go tonight, never mind in 6 weeks. Bobby has been working on getting the head movement back, working on my feints and getting the jab working. We’ve worked on it all and it’s come together. My left jab will be a massive weapon come fight night.”

I’d been informed Mike had sparred Johanneson before. An obvious yardstick on how their October fight could pan out would be how the two fared during these sessions. Mike expressed his confidence and enthusiasm as he moved from discussing sparring, to cleanly stacking the odds in his own corner.

“We’ve sparred three or four times before. To be fair he’s a strong kid, he can whack a bit. But then hey, so can I. I was a little bit stronger than him, and I know that I hit a little bit harder, and I take a better shot. Don’t forget I’ve been in wars before, massive wars, and I’ve come out victorious. The pressure is on him, I’ve been on the comeback trail before, he hasn’t. He has everything to lose, I’ve got nothing to lose. I remember after one spar Carl saying to me that I made everything a war. Well that’s what I do, WARS!! He’s going to find out they were only pretend wars, this will be a real one, and I don’t think he will want to be in it for too long”

A common opponent for the two is dangerous Russian Leva Kirakosyan. Gomez defeated the Russian in October of 2004, whilst Johanneson has been defeated by the heavy handed Kirakosvan on two separate occasions, the last following four brutal rounds in Barnsley, back in July.

“You cant take too much away form Carl for losing there. Kirakosvan is a huge puncher. When I fought him I could feel his power. If he hit Morrales clean, or Barrera clean, he’d have them in trouble. He had me going in the fifth but I showed my warrior mentality and I finished him in the next round” said Gomez.

The next question I had for Mike was clearly a loaded one, and he knew it too. It was in relation to losing home advantage for the fight, did I think he cared, no chance. Did he think I thought he cared, absolutely no chance. Gomez had travelled to Edinburgh and beat Alex Arthur in the Scotsman’s den, the partisan crowd were ferocious in their support of Arthur, yet Gomez thrived from the atmosphere. It’d take some crowd to intimidate Gomez following his experiences in Edinburgh that night.

“What does home advantage mean? For starters I sell more tickets than him, I’ve sold 250 myself already. It may be nearer his home town but believe you me it’ll be a Michael Gomez crowd in there. Regardless, when that first bell goes Carl Johanneson will realise what Alex Arthur realised. The crowd go back, and we step forwards. He’s got my title. I never lost it. I vacated it. Now I’m coming to take it back and regain my spot as number one Super Featherweight.”

The enthusiasm for this next title challenge was evident in Mike’s body language. Mike has a new bounce in his step, and speaks with renewed belief for the sport. Carl Johanneson may start slight favourite with the bookies, and Gomez knows he is in for a tough nights work, but Mike’s prediction was an unsurprisingly confident one…

 “Gomez wins. I’m not going to sit here and make wild round choices, but I will beat him and regain my title. Carl’s a good fighter, but he’s nowhere near my level. I know it, you know it and after the fight he’ll know it too”.

By Sam Doleman

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21/09/07

“I’m a fighter, and I’ll fight anyone, anywhere” – Mark Thompson 

Whilst some fighters tread water and build up “impressive” unbeaten records, others, such as Manchester Welterweight Mark Thompson, prefer to do things the old fashioned way. Coming off a career first defeat to world ranked South African light middleweight Vincent Vuma, Mark took some time out from training to have a chat about his upcoming season, and the frantic finale to his last.

Following the mandatory pleasantries Mark took a seat on the ring apron at Olivers gym. His workout had included four fairly intensive rounds on the pads with his trainer, Humphrey Harrison. During a session I’d recorded for the VIP Boxing web site, the pair had been working on combinations in close, and out of the clinch. The ferocity of Mark’s power, and the intensity of the rounds, was frightening upon watching the tape back later that evening. Something I’m told is par for the course when Mark trains.  

I was fully aware that my first question to Mark was one he’d undoubtedly been asked on multiple occasions since his only professional defeat back in July. It was simple, you can wrap a fighter in cotton wool and amass a pretty 25-0 record, but the real acid test is how a fighter responds to that first defeat. 

“I’ve gained so much experience from that one fight its unreal. The African is ranked 16^th at light middleweight (Mark campaigns at Welterweight) with the WBC. I had six days notice. That resulted in me weighing 10st 10lbs whilst eating a banana on the scales. Vuma on the other hand was bang on the 154lb limit, he weighed just over a stone heavier than me come the first bell. But hey, I’m a paid fighter and that’s what I’ll do” 

I decided to press Mark for further details on the experience he gained from the fight. Many fighters would buckle, swerve the question, and talk of their next fight, or their previous win. But as up front as his fighting style can at times be, Mark pressed on. 

“I’d never been down as an amateur or professional. If I would’ve stayed down in the fourth, I think I’d be thinking a little differently now. But I didn’t. I got up and in the very next round put him on the seat of his pants. I think that answered some questions, not only for the paying fight fans, but for me too. Okay, I lost the fight in the 8^th, but how many British prospects have that kind of experience in their twelfth fight? I learnt more from that defeat than I would’ve beating ten knockover jobs” 

Mark had not only gained experience from the Vuma contest, he’d also gained valuable exposure. 

“It was my first time on Sky, headlining the show was a real honour. Every other time I was due to feature (on Sky) the main bout, and supporting bout had gone the distance, so mine would be missed off the televised bill. I just can’t wait to get on again now” 

Mark wont have long to wait. He is pencilled in to fight Scotish Welterweight Kevin Mcintyre, in what will be a British Welterweight title eliminator, on the undercard of Jamie Moore’s second bout with Andrew Facey in October. 

“I’m fighting a Dutch kid, Ronnie Daniels, at Robin Park on September 22^nd. If all goes well I should be chief support to Moorseys (Jamie Moore) next title defence. It’ll be a British title eliminator against Kev Mcintyre, he recently out pointed Tony Docherty, so I know it’ll be a tough one” 

My mind took a second to process the information, and then the name clicked into place, Kevin Anderson. For a twelve fight novice the prospect of fighting ‘Ando’ for the British title within six months must be daunting. 

“Anderson’s the champ, and I’ve got a big fight I can’t afford to look past with McIntyre coming up. Should I win the eliminator of course I’d jump at the chance to fight Anderson. I’d fight him in Manchester, or I’d fight him in front of his fans in Scotland. When it comes to the crunch there’s just the two of us in the ring. I’m a fighter, and I’ll fight anyone, anywhere. If that’s Kevin Anderson, for the British title, all the better”  

Mark Thompson takes on Ronnie Daniels on this Saturday’s (September 22^nd) VIP show at Robin park, Wigan. Tickets can be purchased through the fighters, or on the door. Doors open at 18:30, with the evenings boxing to commence at 19:30. Also on the card are Alex Matvienko, Brian Rose, Mark Moran, Stuart McFadgen & Martin Murray. For full details on this show, and future shows, please visit the news section at www.vipboxing.com 

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 20/09/07

ALEX Matvienko is hoping revenge will be short and sweet when he takes on Martin Marshall at Wigan’s Robin Park Centre on Saturday night.

The pair met at the same venue in July, and the Bolton middleweight is still upset having been forced to shared the spoils with the Sunderland stylist, despite them both putting on a good show.

“Things will be different this time,” says Alex.

“Last time he ran from me and I did all the work, but this time he says he’s coming to fight, and that suits me fine.

“It’s my first six rounder as well, which I can’t wait for. Four-round fights are tough because you have to win three rounds to be sure of a decision, otherwise it’s a close call. If you start slowly you’ve had it.

“I felt I beat him first time around, so it’s up to me to make sure of it this time.”

Indeed, Matvienko’s impressive unbeaten record of seven wins and two draws is testament to a couple of decisions which should have gone in his favour.

In his last fight, most onlookers felt the popular ‘One Man Riot’ had convincingly beaten Marshall over four rounds, even taking into account the point taken off him for a debatable low blow.

But referee Steve Gray declared the bout a draw, to the disappointment of the majority. Many, myself included, were sure Matvienko had edged a close fight between two classy boxers with his relentless pressure and a succession of right hands.

It was a closely-fought battle and Marshall put up a good showing but his face was a bruised and bloodied mess at the end.

Alex is confident he will perform as well, if not better, this weekend.

“I thought I certainly won the last fight,” he says.

“Marshall is a good boxer, I take nothing away from him, but I did enough in most peoples eyes to take it.”

Marshall poses another tough test for Matvienko, but where does he see his future.

“I’ve been boxing for 18 months and this is my tenth fight coming up. I’m very happy with my progress,” says Alex.

“This weekend I will be topping the bill, it’s a great feeling and I’m looking forward to it.

“How far can I go in the sport? Who’s to say. I just want to be as good as I can possibly be. I don’t want to leave boxing with any excuses, I want to know that I’ve given my best, and with Humphrey (Harrison) training me I feel I can continue to progress and do well.”

By Martin Williams