Prizefighter spot up for grabs as poor Purdy gets injured

Next month's English light-welterweight championship contest between Michael Grant and Steve Williams could lead to the winner securing a Prizefighter spot.  

Matchroom Sport Chairman Barry Hearn will invite the winner of the clash on November 6, which will be held in Magherafelt, Northern Ireland, on the undercard of Paul McCloskey's clash with Souleymane M'baye for the European title, into December's Prizefighter Light-Welterweights.
 
A press conference to launch the latest event in The Prizefighter Series was held at the Hilton Olympia in Kensington, London, earlier today.
 
Hearn revealed that Colchester-based fighter Lee Purdy, the current Southern Area champion, has withdrawn due to an injury sustained in training.
 
His place could now be taken by either Londoner Grant or Liverpool's Steve Williams and Hearn believes it will be great extra motivation for both men.
 
"With seven top established boxing champions already committed to Prizefighter light-welterweights, it's a real opportunity for either Michael Grant or Steve Williams to be included in such a prestigious line-up," said Hearn.
 
"Of course Michael and Steve are contesting the English title on Friday, November 6 but the added attraction of the winner getting into Prizefighter is a big carrot to dangle in front of both fighters.
 
"The secret of Prizefighter has always been the mixture of fighters and their styles and a mixture of past and future champions.
 
"December 4th at the National Hall Olympia is no exception to the high standard that we've already seen. You just have to look at the names and the memorable fights they've been in to know it will be another great night of boxing Prizefighter style.
 
"Favourites haven't fared too well at Prizefighters and sometimes, just sometimes, a young ambitious fighter can become a superhero on the night. Let's wish all the fighters the best of luck.
 
"The boxing fans will be watching the type of entertainment that boxing has been crying out for years."
 
The event takes place at the National Hall, Olympia, London on Friday, December 4 and features some of the biggest names in the division, including former world, European and British champions.

Ex-WBA champion Gavin Rees is among the eight, as are Ted Bami, Jason Cook and Colin Lynes, who have all held European belts.

Former British title holders David Barnes, Barry Morrison and Young Mutley will also be vying for the £32,000 winner’s prize, while either Grant or Williams will complete a strong line-up.

"I think Prizefighter is the best thing in boxing," said Barnes. "Winning this will get my career back on track and I'm looking forward to it."

Mutley added: "It's going to be a war from the first round to the last."

Tickets cost £40 (unreserved) and £80 (reserved) and are available from See Tickets on 0870 903 9033,

www.seetickets.com or from Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900.