Rhodes vs. Rabchenko For Vacant European Title

Hatton Promotions stable-mates Ryan Rhodes and Sergey Rabchenko will meet for the vacant European light-middleweight title in Sheffield on Saturday 24th March.

The brilliant 12 round battle is likely to be one the best contests staged in Britain this year and shows Hatton Promotions commitment to matching the very best against each other.

Rhodes will be delighted to have home advantage at Ponds Forge Arena, and hopes to deliver a stunning performance to win back his old crown.

Belarussian Rabchenko, 25, who spends much of his time training in Manchester, is unbeaten in 19 fights – with 14 victories inside the distance.

Ryan, 35, won the title by beating his friend – Jamie Moore, in October 2009 in a memorable war but was stripped after one defence because of injury.

Last June, Rhodes stepped up to world level and was stopped in the 12th round by Mexican star – Saul Alvarez, in a WBC title challenge.

And Hatton Promotions head Ricky Hatton has no doubt what awaits the winner, saying: “I am sure I will get the victor a world title fight. It is an exceptional fight between two special boxers and it fills me with excitement at what these lads will serve up for fans.

“Sergey is one of the best young talents in Europe and Ryan might be getting on in years, but his hunger and desire hasn’t diminished. He proved that when he beat Siarhei Khomiski in November. He is raring to go and determined to see off Rabchenko.”

The Sky Sports televised show is already close to a complete sell-out and will also feature Gary Buckland’s British super-featherweight title against Middlesbrough’s Paul Truscott.

On the undercard, Sheffield heavyweight – Richard Towers, will have his first ten rounder and the card will also include unbeaten local ticket sellers Adam Etches and Scott Jenkins.

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and the remaining tickets are priced at £35, £55 and £75 VIP ringside. You can buy by calling 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com