Hayemaker Boxing: Appleby Ready For Lindsay Challenge In Belfast

British featherweight champion Paul Appleby believes his April 25 challenger Martin Lindsay represents the toughest test of his 14 bout pro career, but is eager to test the Irishman’s resolve with some well-placed body shots.

The 21-year-old Appleby, 14-0 (9), will venture to Belfast for “Hayemaker 8” and is confident of retaining his belt, despite the threat of home hero Lindsay.

“Lindsay’s a very good opponent,” admits Appleby, the 2008 Boxing Writers’ ‘Young Boxer of the Year’.

“I’m not saying he’s the best opponent I’ve faced – because I haven’t actually boxed him yet – but he’s probably going to be right up there.

“He’s got a really good record, has excellent technique and good skills. I’m not sure whether he’ll be as tough as John Simpson, but I think he’s definitely got more technique and skill. I think on paper he may be a bit better than Simpson. We’ll find out once I start landing a few punches on him.”

Appleby beat Simpson over 12 rounds to lift the prestigious Lonsdale crown in June 2008. Disciplined rather than dazzling that night, Appleby completed the 12 round distance for the first time and signalled the beginning of, what he hopes, will be a long reign as British champion.

“It’s brilliant being able to call myself British champion,” enthuses Edinburgh-born Appleby. “I don’t want to lose my belt. You get so much respect from everyone when you’re British champion. I just never want to lose this feeling.

“The first time I did the 12 rounds with Simpson, I wasn’t actually sure I’d be able to handle it beforehand. Sparring and punching bags are very different from actually going 12 hard rounds with an opponent. I was a little bit wary going into that fight. I was pretty tired in the ninth round, but after that I was fine. I got my second wind and got through to the end.”

Appleby expects a similarly gruelling and exhausting battle with the undefeated Lindsay on April 25.

“I’ve seen Lindsay box a few times as a pro and I’ve seen him lots in the amateurs,” adds Appleby. “He doesn’t waste a lot of punches and does everything for a reason.

“I think he’ll cope with the 12 rounds fine, but I just wonder what he’ll be like when I start landing my shots. He got knocked down against Derry Mathews and I think I can do the same to him.”

Lindsay earned his crack at Appleby’s title with a stunning come-from-behind knockout of Mathews last September. It’s a win that impressed Appleby, but also one that may be somewhat deceiving.

“Derry Mathews wasn’t the same fighter he once was,” says Appleby. “I don’t want to take anything away from Lindsay, but if he hits me with the same left-hook I won’t be going down. I’m pretty confident of that.

“Beating Lindsay in his own backyard will be my best win to date. Lindsay is rated really highly by a lot of people. I also rate him really highly. If I were to beat him it would be a brilliant achievement. I need to hurt him early and hopefully put him down or stun him. I’ll then get his respect and take over from that point.”

Paul Appleby’s British featherweight title defence against Belfast’s Martin Lindsay takes place at the Ulster Hall, Belfast on April 25. Tickets priced at £35, £50 and £70 can be purchased directly by calling 02890 334 455.

Setanta Sports televise Hayemaker 8: ‘Appleby vs. Lindsay’ live from the Ulster Hall on April 25. Also featured will be appearances from two-time British light middleweight champion Ryan Rhodes and hot super middleweight prospect George Groves, as well as Curtis Woodhouse, Michael Maguire and Luke Wilton.