Rematch Record Boosts Watson

ByBoxing Press

Craig Watson believes he will wipe out another loss when he attempts to regain the British welterweight title this weekend.

Southpaw Watson, 28, faces Lee Purdy for his old crown at Oldham Sports Centre tomorrow night (July 16), having lost in five rounds to the Essex man in April.

Watson avenged a defeat against John O’Donnell earlier this year, and is confident of correcting the Purdy setback in their return clash.

Watson who completed his training on Thursday by working out with the Oldham Athletic first team squad said: “Even as an amateur I never lost a rematch and as a professional I did a good job on O’Donnell in our rematch.

“If my past record is anything to go by I will be doing the same to Purdy.

“I haven’t got a clue why I do so well in rematches. I always seem more up for them if results are anything to go by.”

Despite the loss to Purdy, bookies make Watson an odds-on favourite to get the revenge he craves.

Watson, winner in 20 of his 24 battles added: “I was run down before the first fight and had no rest, but this time I have absolutely killed myself in the gym.

“I can’t bring myself to watch our first fight, but I know what he has got and everything about him. I am going to punish him.

“I feel great and being around the Oldham team was a special day and Saturday cannot come quickly enough.”

In supporting contests Watson’s fellow Oldham fighter Darren Stubbs challenges Bob Ajisafe for the vacant English light-heavyweight title.

Commonwealth welterweight champ Denton Vassell is also in action when he boxes a six round non-title fight against Nicaraguan Ronny McField.

Hatton Promotions youngsters on the bill are Austin Hornsby who meets Jason Nesbitt, Dean Halsall is up against Ryan Clark and Matthew Clarkson tackles James Tucker.

The show is not being televised and tickets are selling fast for Watson’s revenge. Prices – £35, £55 and £75 VIP from 01925 755222.

The card will be available from 7pm on Sunday 17h July on Hatton TV with commentary by Phil Duffell and Micky Cantwell. Simply log on to http://www.hattonsports.tv/tv/tv-player.