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After three brave challenges for a world title, Clinton Woods hopes fourth time will be the charm when he takes on feared Detroit puncher Rico Hoye for the vacant IBF light-heavyweight title at the Magna Arena, Rotherham, in a bout fittingly called “Destiny,” the exciting encounter will be broadcast delayed on boxing broadband channel www.SecondsOut.tv on March 5. Tall, rangy and full of heart, Woods, 36-3-1 (22KOs), is seldom in a dull fight and battled 24 championship rounds with the world’s premier light-heavy Glen Johnson in two spirited bids for the title (one loss and one draw), having already faced an on-form Roy Jones in a previous title tilt.
Those closely fought battles with Johnson look highly impressive when one considers the Jamaican’s subsequent form in knocking out Jones and besting Antonio Tarver over the distance. Woods can take further heart from the fact that Johnson was boxing writers’ consensus pick as “Fighter of the Year” for 2004.
Woods, from nearby Sheffield, England, has a passionate army of fans who will provide an intense atmosphere come fight night and their vocal support could be critical in the early rounds as the heavy-handed Hoye looks to impose himself from the first bell.
The powerful Hoye, 18-0 (14KOs), has swiftly built a reputation as one of the most dangerous punchers in the business and announced his smooth progression into world class with a fourth-round crushing of perennial contender Richard Hall last May. Hoye’s subsequent bout with wily veteran Montell Griffin ended in a contentious split decision victory that will provide Woods with some hope, but no complacency.
