ANTHONY UPTON says he will “make a wrong a right” when he challenges for the vacant English super-welterweight crown next Sunday (July 24).
The Ricky Hatton-trained 24-year-old squares off with Bloxwich’s Luke Paddock on Hatton Promotions and Black Country Boxing’s Danger Zone event and he’s determined to win a title that eluded him eight months ago.
In December, Upton put in a gusty display against then champion Joe Hughes but lost on points. While some fighters would have taken time out to lick their wounds, Upton begged Hatton to get him another opportunity and he’s sure the belt will not slip from his grasp this time around.
“I’m going to be leaving the ring without that title this time,” he said. “Losing to Joe Hughes hurt, but it also made me more determined and I won’t let my fans down next Sunday.
“I’ve had the best camp of my life and I just want to get in there and do the business now. It’s about making a wrong a right.”
Luke Paddock will certainly prove to be a stern opponent for Upton. The West Midlander has only lost once in 15 pro outings, has been an area champion, and has the greater experience having boxed over ten rounds on three occasions.
“He’s a good fighter by the looks of things,” Upton said. “I’ve had a look at some clips of him on YouTube and he’s a decent counter puncher.
“I think I have a good idea what his style is going to be like and I’ll be ready for whatever he throws at me.”
Upton v Paddock tops a quality afternoon of boxing at the Chase Leisure Centre. In addition to Arrowsmith, Evans and Sonny Upton, the event also features English super-bantamweight champion Sean Davis, Swadlincote super-middleweight Zach Parker, Burton’s Leon Gower, Derby debutant Sahib Singh Mann, and former world kickboxing champion Chad Sugden.
The show takes place at Chase Leisure Centre, Stafford Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 4AL.
Tickets, priced at £30 and £60 Ringside, are available by calling 01543 504 065. The show takes place on Sunday afternoon with doors opening at 12.30pm.