by James Slater: On July 19th in Birmingham, Audley “A-Force” Harrison has the second fight in his latest comeback – a comeback he hopes will finally see him box for a world title. Opposing him next month is a tough Irishman who made a name for himself this past April by winning in the British heavyweight “Prize-fighter” tournament.. Now, at age 37, the unbeaten Rogan takes the biggest step up in his career as he attempts to end the career of the former Olympic gold medallist.
Rogan, a limited but gutsy brawler, is certainly up for the fight. Speaking with Setanta recently, the Irishman had his game face firmly on.
“If Audley walked past me on the street he wouldn’t know me,” Rogan said, admitting he is far from a household name. “But he’ll sure as hell know me in the ring. I’d fight him for nothing. If it had been offered to us for petrol money and cab fare, I’d have done it. You need courage and hunger in boxing and I’ve got both of them. I can’t wait for it. I know I am going to win this fight.”
Rogan is correct when he says Harrison is by far the more recognisable fighter, but Audley, one year the younger man, had better be ready for a tough night when the nothing-to-lose Rogan gets in the ring with him. The “Prize-fighter” winner mentioned heart, and it is well known how many fans question Harrison’s. July’s fight, in which Rogan is all but guaranteed to come out hard and fast at the sound of the very first bell, is sure to test the heart and desire of Harrison.
Audley also spoke to Setanta about the upcoming bout.
“I’m daring to dream and keeping my eye on the prize,” Audley said. “This is the last phase of my career. I’m giving myself three more years and defeat will be very tough for my career. Every fight I am staring at retirement so there can be no more mistakes. It would be very hard to come back from [another] defeat. Sometimes it’s good to go back to the beginning. I’m humble enough to do it because it’s about achieving the goal. To walk from the bottom, fighting another tough pro who’s coming to win.”
With regards to Rogan being tough and coming to fight, Harrison has got that right. He may not be as skilled as his opponent, he may not be as well known and he may not be as experienced, but this writer is going with 37-year-old Martin Rogan to get the win on July 19th. All but putting the final nail in the coffin of a once glittering and promising career in the process.
Rogan by stoppage in 7 or 8 rounds.