Boxing: Lewis' pounds 10m TV deal

LENNOX LEWIS has terminated his agreement with Sky television to take up a more lucrative four-fight deal with an unnamed American cable company, his manager Frank Maloney announced yesterday.

Maloney said that the figures Sky was offering for the World Boxing Council heavyweight title- holder did not match up to those required by Lewis in his attempt to unify the world title.

The American company can also offer the possibility of future coverage on ITV and BBC, Maloney added.

'We have signed the biggest television contract of any sports personality in British history,' Maloney said, adding that the deal would be worth in excess of pounds 10m.

'They see the great potential in Lennox and are backing him. The doors are wide open for Lennox and I think Sky are making a mistake in letting him go; we've had a terrific relationship and I'd always be happy to work with them if the terms are right.'

Lewis's next defence of his title will be against the mandatory challenger, Oliver McCall, in September.