Jon-Lewis Dickinson will face Tommy McCarthy in an eliminator for the British Cruiserweight title on April 30.
Dickinson made headlines in 2015 by halting Stephen Simmons in a contest that was aired live on Sky Sports, and the County Durham boxer will get the opportunity to impress again on the big stage when he faces McCarthy on a show promoted by Eddie Hearn.
The 29-year-old has already won the Lonsdale belt outright, but believes a showdown with McCarthy could propel his career to the next level.
He said: “I’m not going to knock back these opportunities. I’ve won the British title before but boxing on Sky Sports is the sort of platform I’m after. It’s a win-win situation and could lead to bigger things.
“It will be a good fight against McCarthy. He’s unbeaten so far in his career and seems up for the challenge.”
Before facing the Belfast boxer, Dickinson will headline Fighting Chance’s inaugural show on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre.
He added: “Originally I was going to fight for an international title on March 26, but with the McCarthy fight being agreed, we have decided to knock it down to a six-rounder. Since last year was quiet it’s good for me to keep busy.”
Speaking on the decision for Dickinson to box on a Matchroom show, at a venue still to be confirmed, Fighting Chance promoter Lewis Pendleton said:
“It’s a great platform for him to box on Sky Sports once again. He has already won the Lonsdale belt outright but this fight keeps him active and can hopefully push him towards world honours.
“Jon’s manager and chief coach, Ron Rowe has done a fantastic job in keeping the relationship with Matchroom – and he deserves credit for that.”
Dickinson will be considered the more experienced of the two when they meet. However McCarthy, who is a 2010 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, has proved his worth since turning over to the paid ranks and holds an unbeaten record in eight professional contests.
The pair have one common opponent in Courtney Fry, but hold contrasting results over the Liverpool boxer. McCarthy sealed a unanimous points victory over Fry, meanwhile Dickinson had to get off the canvas twice in the first round and consequently fell narrowly short on the referee’s scorecard.
Dickinson will headline ‘Genesis’ on March 26, at Gateshead Leisure Centre, which includes a host of other North East talent, including Josh Leather, Jone TK, Mark White, Herry Biembe and Basi Razaq amongst others.
Tickets for Genesis can be purchased from any boxers on the bill or fromwww.fightingchancepromotions.co.uk.
Fighting Chance Promotions and Jon-Lewis Dickinson would like to thank WM Utility Services and RevGear for their continued support.
