24.05.04 – Luton’s GRAHAM EARL will have to face Bradford’s Bobby Vanzie again on June 5 at the York Hall to regain his British Lightweight title. Earl was stripped of his crown by the British Boxing Board of Control after previous withdrawals from his contest with Vanzie due to injury. Following a very productive meeting between the Board and the managers of Earl and Vanzie, a deal was agreed which will see them challenge for the vacant title.
The pair first met in Dagenham last July where Earl defeated Vanzie by two points to claim the title but he is now aiming for a more conclusive result.
Earl said, “I was very disappointed at being stripped of the title due to injuries that can happen to boxers at anytime. However, I am grateful to the Board, Vanzie and Murray for giving me the opportunity to regain my title. I am a firm believer that titles should be won and lost in the ring and it makes a refreshing change in this business that commonsense has prevailed,”
He continued, “Vanzie feels he won the fight last time and I believe I won. This fight will finally settle the issue. I won’t be looking at a long battle with him this time I will knock him out so no questions will be asked.”
Part of the agreement is that the winner of Earl-Vanzie will be mandated to fight Harlow puncher STEVE MURRAY within a stipulated time period depending on who is champion.
Murray aims to get revenge on both men as they have previously beaten him. “I will definitely be ringside on the night and keeping a close eye on both of them. Vanzie hasn’t looked good in his last two fights so we will see what he has left in the tank. I think that Earl will beat him again and I hope he wins because I will be able to get the title fight on quicker with him than Vanzie. Both have beaten me so I’m hungry to get revenge on both of them. I’m training harder and better than ever before and with the title situation clear now I know I will get my chance soon and when it does come I will definitely win it.” Said Murray.
Bedford’s MATT SKELTON headlines the show with the first defence of his Commonwealth Heavyweight title against an opponent to be confirmed.
Tickets for ‘Come and Get it’, priced at £25, £40 and £60, are available from the Sports Network Box Office on 01992 550 888 or online at www.frankwarren.tv/tickets