Thursday, February 11, 2010

Cleverly Chasing Title Dreams

Nathan Cleverly is looking to take a step closer to a world title shot by picking up the vacant European light-heavyweight belt on Saturday.

The Welsh maths student is relinquishing his British and Commonwealth straps to move to the next level after 18 fights without defeat, taking on Italian veteran Antonio Brancalion at Wembley.

And the 22-year-old, who has stopped his last five opponents inside the distance in impressive fashion, believes the time is right to put his name on the map.

"First and foremost it's a matter of collecting the European belt," he said. "That would complete my collection of the top 'domestic' belts with the British and Commonwealth I already have and that's a major achievement in itself.

"By winning the European, though, you are setting yourself a firm platform to go on to world title level which is obviously the ultimate goal.

"It sets the foundation because it is a major, respected belt in world boxing so it would be nice to get it on Saturday night."

Cleverly has been frustrated by the shenanigans surrounding the promotion of the clash, but is happy to be fighting on home turf once again.

"It's been a bit frustrating because we had the date set initially for December 5 and then the Italians won the purse bids for January 29 but couldn't stage the fight," he explained.

"So they've messed us around a bit and it's been frustrating, but you get these setbacks in boxing and you've just got to come through them.

"It's worked out quite well. It may be a blessing in disguise because it's not in Italy now, we're in Britain. It could have worked out for the best.

"This is my fourth time in a row in London and each time I've come here I've been successful and enjoyed the atmosphere so I'm glad to be back to be honest."

"I'm just raring to go now and get in there to win the European belt.

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