With stars such as David Haye and Amir Khan, Britain continues to boast some of the world’s best boxing talent, and ESPN Classic has announced the launch of a new series which celebrates Britain’s rich boxing heritage. British Boxing Heroes looks back on some of the fighters that represented Britain gloriously throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s. Presented by boxing expert Steve Bunce, the ten-part series is a combination of little-seen match-ups, classic fights and career-defining moments. The revealing programmes include some of Britain’s most famous boxers showcasing their raw talent in bouts before they had hit the big time, as well as contests featuring fighters in their prime..
The half-hour long episodes include: “Before They Were Famous”, featuring Joe Calzaghe in only his second professional fight, Ken Buchanan’s British Lightweight title clash against Brian Hudson and Naseem Hamed’s fifth pro fight; “Frank Bruno: The Early Years”, with some of Bruno’s earliest encounters, including his first professional contest, up against Lupe Guerra and his first title fight (for the European Heavyweight title) against Anders Eklund; and Henry Cooper v Joe Bugner in 1971 – possibly the most notorious British fight in boxing history, which deeply divided the boxing community and the public.
Commenting on the programme, Steve Bunce said: “Finally a boxing show with a bit of everything! It’s the series with big names in their primes, some great fighters when they were unknown and some truly unforgettable nights – it’s got the lot. Enjoy it.”
The series begins on Monday 14th June on ESPN Classic on Sky Channel 429 and Virgin Media Channel 533. See below for a full schedule.
PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE
Monday 14th June @ 11.10pm
Before They Were Famous
Tuesday 15th June @ 11.10pm
Chris Finnegan v Johnny Frankham 2
Wednesday 16th June @ 11.10pm
Charlie Magri v Rodriguez, Cerdeno
Thursday 17th June @ 11.10pm
Frank Bruno: The Early Years
Friday 18th June @ 11.10pm
Richie Woodhall: The Early Years
Monday 21st June @ 11.05pm
Chris Finnegan v Bob Foster 1972
Tuesday 22nd June @ 11.05pm
Lloyd Honeyghan v Vaca, Starling
Wednesday 23rd June @ 11.05pm
John H Stracey v Hedgemon Lewis
Thursday 24th June @ 11.05pm
Alan Minter v Kevin Finnegan
Friday 25th June @ 11.05pm
Henry Cooper v Joe Bugner 1971