Frank Maloney Boxing: Jeffries, Sutherland In Mackem Madness

World boxing’s top prospects Tony Jeffries and Darren ‘Dazzler’ Sutherland will get an eyeful of each other on Friday July 10.

The Beijing bronze medallists, who are on a collision course to eventually meet, both face European opposition in super-middleweight six rounders at Sunderland’s Seaburn Centre.

Top of the FTM promoted bill is Lee Haskins’ British super-flyweight title defence against fighting soldier Ross Burkinshaw.

It is another hometown fight for Jeffries (2-0), who is fast emerging as the north-east’s most popular fighter of all time.

‘Jaffa’ , 24, is tipped do to for north-east boxing what Ricky Hatton did for the fight game in Manchester.

The Beijing hero’s homecoming in April was a special night with Crowtree Leisure Centre bursting at the seams for his second round win against Roy Meissner.

And Sky Sports were so impressed with his fanatical support they are back for more.

Dubliner Sutherland, 27, has looked sensational since switching codes and is eyeing Jeffries and Olympic conqueror James DeGale.

Sutherland (3-0) is based in London and trainer Brian Lawrence says: “Forget everybody else, Dazzler is the real deal.”

The cream of boxing talent in the north-east will also box on the card including local heavyweights Dave Ferguson and Danny Hughes. Newcastle’s fighting brothers John Lewis Dickinson and Travis Dickinson are also in action.

Tickets prices £80, £40 are expected to sell-out in days. You can get yours from 0871 226 1508, www.frankmaloney.com and Phil Jeffries 0191 564 0202.