05.01.07 – Scott Lawton now has just over seven weeks left to prepare for the defence of his English lightweight title scheduled to take place at Stoke’s Kings Hall on 24th February. Lawton, who won the title in June last year, will defend against Dean Hickman of West Bromwich over the title distance of ten rounds..
The 27 year old Hickman, who until now campaigned at the 10st light-welterweight limit, boasts a record of 15 wins 2 losses and 1 draw. Hickman’s most notable victories have been over, Lawton’s team-mate and sparring partner, Gary Reid who he beat on points over ten rounds and a six round points victory over, otherwise unbeaten, Lee McAllister. His two defeats have been suffered at the hands of British title contender Barry Morrison (a first round stoppage) and English light-welterweight champion Nigel Wright (a seventh round knock-out).
Lawton’s tally now shows 20 wins 2 losses and 1 draw having never been stopped in the professional ranks and having missed out by only a single point on the occasion of each of his reversals. Lawton’s scalps include, current Irish champion, Pete McDonagh, Stefy Bull and Silence Saheed.
Lawton is perhaps one of the most technically proficient men in the increasingly competitive lightweight division and demonstrated his prowess with particular effect in his victories over the tough Baz Carey and the ranked Stefy Bull last year. Hickman however, also shows good technical skills which he combines with an ability to ‘mix it’ to some effect when the situation arises and as a strong ‘come forward’ boxer will present the Potteries man with a stiff test. On the face of it the bout looks evenly balanced and is therefore worthy of a title contest.
At 5’ 10”, over Hickman’s 5’ 7”, Lawton does however posses a slight height and reach advantage and, as the more mobile, the defending champion should enter the bout as the slight favourite. Lawton also tends to raise his game when the stakes are high and meticulous in his training, is unlikely to leave anything to chance as he gives Hickman his due respect.
“I am always fit and am rarely out of the gym; I only had a couple of days off over Christmas,” said Lawton. “I am already fitter and stronger than I was when I beat Stefy Bull but I am now stepping up my training for this fight. Dean Hickman will really have to be on top form if he wants to take my title.”
“I have lots of respect for Dean and his record so I won’t be leaving anything to chance. I am sparring more intensely now and am working on a number of other things in the gym that I hope will see me in my best condition yet.”
Tickets for Lawton’s title defence can be obtained by contacting Impact Boxing on 0845 156 7168