Irish fight fans could witness one of the domestic fights of 2009 on "Hayemaker 5", when Belfast hero Martin ‘Mac Man’ Lindsay attempts to snatch the British Featherweight title from reigning champion Paul Appleby on March 7 at the Ulster Hall in Belfast.

The fascinating battle of unbeaten prospects will match Hayemaker star Lindsay against Scotsman Appleby, the current Boxing Writer’s ‘Young Boxer of the Year’. The intriguing 12 rounder will be screened live and exclusively on Setanta Sports.

Belfast born Lindsay, a former amateur standout and unblemished pro, set up his shot at the prestigious Lonsdale title with a stunning, come from behind knockout of fellow Hayemaker featherweight Derry Mathews in September.

Despite narrowly trailing on the scorecards going into the ninth round, Lindsay uncorked a savage left-hook to emphatically end matters.

At 26 years of age and with 13 pro wins to his name, Lindsay feels the time is right to take Appleby’s coveted prize on March 7.

“It wouldn’t matter who was holding the title – I want that belt,” claims Lindsay, 13-0 (5). “Appleby’s a good young fighter with lots of ability, but nobody is standing in my way of winning the British title.

“Whenever you turn pro, you want to be fighting for the British title, the European title and even bigger titles. You want to be involved in big fights that get people talking. What’s the point in hanging around? I want to get in there and test myself – find out how good I am.”

Edinburgh champion Appleby is one of the outstanding pro talents in Britain. Also 13-0 (8), Appleby has already claimed the scalps of top domestic contenders John Simpson and Esham Pickering.

A spiteful puncher to head and body, Appleby, still only 21 years of age, shows no fear in conceding home advantage to mandatory challenger Lindsay.

“This is a great fight for British boxing, and both Appleby and Lindsay are a credit to the sport,” says Hayemaker Head of Boxing Dave Coldwell.

“We’re delighted to be able to work again with Tommy Gilmour and Matchroom on this show and are pleased that we came to an agreement to stage this fight in Belfast.

“This fight proves that when so-called ‘rival’ promoters have healthy relationships and are happy to work together, the best domestic fights get made. Paul and Tommy had no hesitation defending the belt in Belfast. Both are very confident in Paul’s ability.”

Hayemaker Director Adam Booth predicts fireworks in the "Hayemaker 5" main event.

“It’s a brilliant fight,” says Booth. “Appleby and Lindsay are two of the best prospects in this country and they are getting it on at a time in their careers when many other young fighters would shy away from the fight.

"Appleby’s a great talent but, ultimately, I feel Lindsay’s better amateur pedigree and more patient counter-punching will win him the British title. I can see Martin stopping Appleby in the later rounds.”

For more information on "Hayemaker 5" and other upcoming Hayemaker shows, please visit the official website at www.hayemaker.com.

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