By James Slater: Unbeaten Tyson Fury, the reigning British and Commonwealth heavyweight champ, is in search of a new opponent to face in Belfast on September 17th now that 40-year-old Martin Rogan has turned down a lucrative offer to challenge him – according to Fury promoter Mick Hennessey, anyway.
23-year-old Fury has Irish roots, and the red-hot star wanted to face Belfast’s Rogan at The King’s Hall – especially after the former “Prizefighter” champion promised he would take the fight and “beat Fury senseless” (as quoted by The Belfast Telegraph). However, Hennessey is now angered at how Rogan has decided to turn down the fight.
“I can’t believe that Martin has turned down the offer to fight Tyson,” Hennessey said. “ He was given all he wanted – one of the best purses he’s ever had, a chance to fight for both titles and fighting in his home city. In the end Martin talked a good fight with Tyson, that was all.”
So now, Fury – who “can’t wait to get back in the ring” – will look for another suitable foe for the Sept. 17th date in Belfast. According to reports, one man Fury will not be facing (at least not next) is unbeaten Canadian prospect Neven Pajkic. The two unbeaten contenders have had words before, but Pajkic needs time to allow a torn chest muscle to heal, so he won’t be next for Fury.
We now wait to see who will be next for the heavily-hyped 6’9” British star.
Dereck Chisora, who Fury beat to take the British and Commonwealth belts last month, is reportedly eager for a rematch with the man who also took his perfect record. It’s doubtful, though, that a return will happen so soon, if ever. But credit goes to Fury, 15-0(10) for wanting to stay busy and actively pursuing a busy schedule.
The fight with Rogan would have been another sensible test for Fury, as he builds himself into a fully-fledged world title challenger.
As for Rogan, it is now unclear who he will fight next. The tough campaigner had been linked to a fight with the unbeaten Kubrat Pulev. Has “Rogie” made a big mistake in turning away the offer to face Fury?