Prizefighter rule change for International Heavyweights

Losing fighters could get second chance under new guidelines

The British Boxing Board of Control have passed a proposed rule change for reserves in Prizefighter ahead of the International Heavyweights night at Alexandra Palace on May 7, live on Sky Sports.

The change means that should a winning boxer in Prizefighter fail to pass a medical to progress to the next stage, the losing fighter can go through in their place subject to the Board’s medical offices clearing them to do so.

The line-up for the 18th edition of Matchroom Sport’s eight-man, one night shows is now complete with former WBC Cruiserweight and International Heavyweight champion Juan Carlos Gomez taking the eighth spot. The Cuban fought Vitali Klitschko for the Ukrainian’s heavyweight title as did Kevin ‘Kingpin’ Johnson, the American who boasts a 24-1-1 record.

UK Prizefighter Heavyweight champion Michael Sprott will be flying the flag for Britain in north London, with Irish interest in the shape of Mike Perez, the unbeaten Cuban living in Cork. David Haye was influential in getting his Puerto Rican sparring partner Fres Oquendo in the mix, with 6ft 8in American Tye Fields a man to watch with an incredible 41 knockouts from 45 wins.

European interest comes from French Heavyweight champ and former European title challenge Gregory Tony and big-hitting German Konstantin Airich with 13 knockouts from 16 wins.

Tickets for Prizefighter International Heavyweights at London’s Alexandra Palace on Saturday 7 May are available from Matchroom Sport priced £35 unreserved, £50 and £60 ringside and £120 VIP – to buy call Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900.