Darren Barker Delivers Big Fight Boost For Lee Purdy

Lee Purdy believes he cannot go wrong in his British welterweight title defence against Craig Watson.

The Colchester man believes training alongside European middleweight champion Darren Barker has fired him up to beat Watson again.

Purdy, 24, caused a huge upset in April snatching the crown from Watson with a magnificent fifth round stoppage.

Watson has hometown advantage in their return meeting at Oldham Sports Centre on Saturday July 16.

Purdy said: “It doesn’t bother me going into his backyard and I think I will knock him out again.

“The gym is buzzing and we all bounce off each other. I get such a lift being around a boxer like Darren Barker.

“We go running together all the time, train alongside each other and even spar sometimes. He is one of the best middleweights in the world.

“He is there every day and is such a great help along with my trainer Tony Sims.”

Purdy’s only defeat in 18 professional fights came when he narrowly lost on points to Denton Vassell in a Commonwealth title challenge last year.

He added: “Back then I was still get used to training under Tony, but now we have been together for two years I am a much better fighter.

“I will prove that against Watson next week. I was winning the first fight so there is no reason for me to have any doubt about the outcome.”

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

Vassell is also in action when he boxers a six round non-title fight against Nicaraguan Ronny McField.

Hatton Promotions youngsters on the bill include Austin Hornsby, Dean Halsall and Matthew Clarkson.

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