Barker's first defense is vs Sturm, 7th Dec, Germany

[Fenster]

There's a difference between how vocal and passionate supporters are compared with actual numbers. Sturm is much bigger in Germany than Barker is in England. Barker wouldn't do half the tickets or half the TV interest they'll get out there.

Barker said this payday is huge compared with what he got against Martinez on HBO.

[erics44]

my money will be on sturm by KO

[Rantcatrat]

@erics44 - Sturm by KO after Barker beat Geale who beat Sturm? I like Barker by UD. Sturm has lost a step. Remember his performance against Soliman. Even if Soliman was not PEDs, it wasn't vintage Sturm.

[erics44]

@erics44 - Sturm by KO after Barker beat Geale who beat Sturm? I like Barker by UD. Sturm has lost a step. Remember his performance against Soliman. Even if Soliman was not PEDs, it wasn't vintage Sturm.

yep I realise the history

Geale is a tough man and did pip sturm to a UD

I'm just not sure barker is quite as tough and I think strurms punches might tell

[Gandalf]

There's a difference between how vocal and passionate supporters are compared with actual numbers. Sturm is much bigger in Germany than Barker is in England. Barker wouldn't do half the tickets or half the TV interest they'll get out there.

Barker said this payday is huge compared with what he got against Martinez on HBO.

That's a shame then. Someone like Hatton would never have needed to go to Germany. Britain should support its champions.

[p4pking]

If Barker had that kind of home support he wouldn't have won his world title fighting an Aussie in Atlantic city. I'm sure this is a massive payday for him and if the rematch is really in place it's safer than any other means to get the same coin.

[Kirkland Laing]

It'll be interesting to see if a rematch does happen if Sturm wins.

[Master]

Money talks and in an ideal world this fight would be in the UK but if barker is being fully compensated to fight in Germany with neutral judges and an immediate rematch in the UK then so be it.

Hope Barker beats Sturm who has been a homer for far too long. Also do not bring the ODH fight as a reason that was years ago and he has had opportunities to fight abroad and not taken the chance.

[Beanz]

Bit gutted really because I think Barker will outbox Sturm to a clear points win and then Sturm will be given the decision. Do not think the Geale fight is any indication of how Darren will approach Sturm.

[ykdadamaja]

Barker gets beat up and stopped by 11.

[Dia bando]

Barker must be getting a good pay day, in Germany it's a risk but it's one he seems willing
to take good luck to him, he may get shafted but he must fancy his chances.