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Menay “the emperor” Edwards – fresh from a shut out win over former British Champion Shane McPhilbin, takes on his toughest test to date on April 5 in the Goodwin Promotions promoted “Its Banjo time” show, at Grays Essex, when he takes on Arturs Kulikauskis (9-15-3).
Whilst Kulikauskis’ record may not look inspiring – it hides the real standing of the man. At just twenty two years old Arturs took on the role of journeyman.
However, November 2012 changed that role when he won a shutout 80-72 against former British Champion Leon Williams. He then unsuccefully challenged the highly regarded Italian Marko Larghetti (18-0) before defeating former European Champion and two time World title challenger (WBO and WBA) Yuriy Barashian from the Ukraine.
Without a doubt this is a gamble for Edwards – now managed and promoted by Steve Goodwin – but a win against Kulikauskis will take Edwards into the top six of the UK rankings and break into the World 100 rankings.
“I am delighted with this opportunity” said Edwards. This is why I signed with Steve Goodwin. “He promised me the opportunities and he is delivering. I am more active now and will be looking for a British title challenge in the next twelve months”.
The Edwards v Kulikauskis Cruiserweight clash is part of an exciting card featuring three title fights.
Headlining is local lad Lee “The Banjo” Markham from Grays in his first title contest over 10 rounds at Middleweight. Lee has won 7 from 8 contests and has been very impressive since signing with Steve Goodwin with two stoppages over two previously unbeaten fighters and winning all three fights under the GP banner by stoppage.
Lee takes on the tough Harry “The Pocklington Rocket” Matthews who gave Chris Eubank jr a tough fight in his most recent contest. This will be an all action war and is a contest that should not be missed.
In the joint main event, current WBF Champion Chris Goodwin – who has won 16 from 19 fights – takes on Oisin Fagan for the International Masters Lightweight title. This is a real grudge match with Fagan who has formally competed for International title honours in this past.
“The Tornado” Tyler Goodjohn came close to winning his first title in 2012 when he lost a close decision to now southern Area Champion Danny Connor. Tyler looks to make amends as he takes on Dave “Dessie” O’Connor from Plymouth in what will be another exciting clash. Both boxers have come forward aggressive styles.
New Heavyweight star Ian Lewison also features on the show in an International contest. Jimmy Coyle – former National amateur champion, has his first fight under the Goodwin banner since signing a long term deal. Jimmy defeated current world champion Nathan Cleverly as an amateur and fights in a 4×3 Middleweight contest. Jimmy takes on the experienced “Isle of Wight Assassin” Jay Morris.
Exciting heavyweight AJ Carter makes his professional debut. AJ takes on the durable Paul Morris from Lancashire. Light-Middleweight Billy Cayzer has his first fight since his shock loss to Bulgarian Champion Stillian Kostov. Billy takes on the tough Dee Mitchell from Birmingham.
Myley Cash has his second professional contest at Middleweight. Myley takes on Dan Blackwell from Wiltshire. Mike Evans (4-0) puts his undefeated record on the line at Super-Middleweight.
