Well after a good first half of the year, what can we expect from the summer in world boxing?

After a good start to June with wins for Miguel Cotto and Paulie Malignaggi, our attention moves to Las Vegas, Nevada this Saturday with Ricky Hatton's biggest fight stateside against Mexican hardman Jose Luis Castillo. It should be a battle.

The summer also features an intriguing rematch on July 7. Three years ago, Wladimir Klitschko was a heavy favourite to regain the WBO title against American Lamon Brewster. Dramatically, Klitschko fell apart losing in the fifth. To his credit, Wlad has dusted himself off with wins over the likes of Samuel Peter and Chris Byrd. Despite the loss, he will probably start as the favourite against Brewster.

Arturo Gatti still keeps rolling on. He continues the comeback against Alfonso Gomez, who has a modest 16 wins in 21 fights.

The welterweight division seems to be back where it belongs as one of the hottest in boxing. On July 14 in a fight I cant wait for, dangerman Antonio Margarito defends his WBO title against undefeated American Paul Williams. This could very well be a dark horse as one of the fights of 2007. I for one cannot wait and I am glad British TV will air this live.

Another big 147 pound fight takes place on the same night when big punching Kermit Cintron defends his IBF title.

Bernard Hopkins again seems to be having an indian summer to his career and in his debut at light heavyweight last summer, he totally outclassed Antonio Tarver. Can he do the same thing against defensive master Ronald "Winky Wright" on the 21 July?

Winky is moving up two divisions to face a man who last time out looked totally comfortable at 175 pounds. I betted against Hopkins last time against Tarver. I won't be too hasty this time.

On the homefront, Joe Calzaghe marches on. In April, he made the 20th defence of his crown against Peter Manfredo. I just hope he can get that unification match against Kessler.

Also, Clinton Woods still rules the roost at 175 pounds. Hopefully after his good win over Johnson, he can get a big money matchup.

Amir Khan is looking better and better with each outing. On the 14th of July, he fights for his first major title against Scotsman Willie Limond. The bill that night is topped by a bout for the vacant WBO Featherweight Championship. Dagenham's undefeated Nicky Cook finally gets his opportunity. The bill that night also features the eagerly anticipated heavyweight rematch between Matt Skelton and Michael Sprott.

All in all its a great lineup and hopefully this will continue throughout the year. I for one hope De La Hoya and Mayweather can sign on the dotted line for fight number two before the close of 2007.

Click to read more boxing articles by Lee Bellfield

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