Boxing: Skelton can add clout to heavyweight division
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Matt Skelton is one of the most popular British heavyweight champions for decades and that is exactly what the neglected division needs. Tonight, at York Hall, Bethnal Green, he will defend his title for the first time against Brixton's Keith Long and for once the 'sold out' signs on the doors at the ancient hall will be genuine, as Bedford's Skelton has an enormous following.
There was a time when it was thought he would not progress much further than lively under-card fights, but that changed in April when he knocked out Michael Sprott, who in January had out-pointed Danny Williams to win the British title. If Skelton beats Longthere appears to be very little on the British heavyweight horizon to challenge him.
The man that Skelton wants and deserves is Audley Harrison, but the Olympic champion is injured and is unlikely to fight again until early next year. Skelton has spoken hopefully about fighting Williams, but that looks unlikely. Williams will meet Vitali Klitschko for the World Boxing Council heavyweight title on 11 December and, win or lose, is unlikely to relish the prospect of meeting somebody as strong and awkward as Skelton.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments