Hatton Boxing: European Champ Kirakosyan Vows To KO Foster

Leva Kirakosyan insists he will knockout Steve Foster Jnr. The Russian knockout artist (33-5) defends his European super-featherweight against Foster Jnr (27-2-1) at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium on Saturday (2/10).

Kirakosyan, 36, won the European title in February with a frightening third round stoppage of Scott Lawton displaying world class power.

He has 23 inside the distance wins, and warned: “Foster will not be able to cope with my power.

“At this level there is nobody who can come close. I expect to get him out of the way by round six. I have watched tapes and I think I will be able to draw him into a fight, and make it even easier. Foster had an excellent amateur career, but he hasn’t got to my level as a professional.”

Kirakosyan is ranked third in the WBC rankings for their 130lb world title held by Vitali Tajbert. He added: “My manager Philippe Fondu will be at the WBC convention this year lobbying my case.

“I am coming to the end of my career, but I am not going to lose against Foster with a world title so close.”

Hatton Promotions matchmaker Richard Poxon has put together a top class undercard featuring some the best young fighters in British boxing.

A brilliant derby showdown sees Manchester rivals Andy Morris and Anthony Crolla slug it out for the vacant English super-featherweight title after Hatton Promotions won the purse bids.

In a final eliminator for Stuey Hall’s British bantamweight title unbeaten St Helens fighter Craig Lyon will tackle Sheffield’s fighting soldier Ross Burkinshaw.

The undercard features a battery of prospects including Britain’s number one heavyweight prospect Richard Towers, John Fewkes, Adam Etches, Rhys Roberts, and Matty Askin.

Tickets prices at £75 VIP Ringside £50 and £30. Call: 0161 775 7500

www.ticketline.co.uk