Aussie Cameron Hammond Given Commonwealth Boost

Cameron Hammond’s WBA Oceania Title clash with Jess Ravudi will double up as an eliminator for the Commonwealth welterweight crown.

The 25-year-old from Moree, New South Wales, is looking to return with an explosive performance following six months on the side lines. And the incentive of potentially earning a showdown with newly-crowned Commonwealth king – Sam Eggington, should spur him on further against an opponent capable of causing an upset.

Australia has not had a Commonwealth titlist at 147lbs since Julian Holland stopped Shannon Taylor back in 2001 and Hammond is keen to turn the tide.

“I was very proud when I won the WBA Oceania Title last year, but to get the chance to box for the Commonwealth would be great,” Hammond, 25, said.

“Obviously, this is an eliminator and there’s no guarantee that my next fight would be for that title itself, but knowing that beating Ravudi puts me on course for it – is something that fills me with excitement.

“It won’t be easy because Ravudi is a good fighter. He will see me as a big scalp and he will give his all. I just think I’ll have too much for him. I’ve had some time out due to injury but I’m fit and strong and I can’t wait to get back in the ring and show the fans what I can do.

“My last two fights have been ten rounders and they’ve put me in good stead for this test. Obviously I’d like a knockout, but I won’t push it. If it comes, it comes.”

Hammond v Ravudi is the chief supporting contest on Xcite Fight Promotions and Hatton Promotions’ show at The Sands Tavern, Maroochydore, Queensland, on May 23. The main event sees two-time Olympian Brad Hore face Afrizal Tamboresi for the vacant WBF Asia Pacific Super-flyweight Title, while Kerry Hope will make his Australian debut against Jamed Jalarante over eight rounds.