Scott Lawton has been handed a dream opportunity to capture the European super-featherweight title when he meets Leva Kirakosyan for the vacant championship in his own backyard at Stoke’s Fenton Manor Sports Complex on February 19.
Lawton’s title-chasing days looked over following his losses to Jon Thaxton, Amir Khan and John Murray at lightweight. But a move down to super-feather, which coincided with a career-best sixth round stoppage over Derry Matthews in November, has secured the popular 33-year-old his surprise chance.
“I can’t believe it,” said an ecstatic Lawton (left, c Chris Royle) over the phone. “I told the Hattons (who promote this show) that at this stage in my career I’m only looking to take part in major fights but I was really shocked when they offered me a shot at the European title.”
“I first got wind of the fight two weeks ago and have been training steadily over Christmas so I’m in good shape and I don’t let my weight go. I can’t wait for this now.”
The 36-year-old Russian Kirakosyan has fought three times in Britain. He was stopped by Michael Gomez in October 2004 but returned by knocking out Carl Johanneson in the opening round just two months later. Kirakosyan went on to win the European super-featherweight title by beating Antonio Joao Bento in March 2007 and made a successful first defence by once again stopping Johanneson in four brutal rounds at the Barnsley Metrodome in July 2007. Kirakosyan’s reign was ended five months later by Sergey Gulyakevich who outboxed him over 12 rounds.
“I know he’ll probably start as favourite but I see this as a 50-50 fight,” commented Lawton. “Carl Johanneson was the perfect opponent for him as he stood straight in front of Kirakosyan which played right into his hands. I won’t be making the same mistake and think the experience I have gained by fighting Amir Khan and John Murray will stand me in greater stead.”
“I feel really good at super-featherweight and can make the weight comfortably providing I cut out the junk food which I have a fondness for. I’ve been boxing for over 20 years yet I’ve only recently discovered that I’m more effective at super-feather but better late than never and I honestly think I can win this,” Lawton added.
Submitted by
Ben Carey on 13 January, 2010 - 13:52
