Marsh gets Commonwealth chance against unbeaten Scot

Former British super-bantamweight champion Matthew Marsh is to fight for the vacant Commonwealth belt against unbeaten Scot prospect Kris Hughes. The Marsh-Hughes title clash is scheduled to be on the undercard of the Frank Maloney promoted IBF super-bantam fight between Steve Molitor and Jason Booth at the Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear on Friday 23rd July.

Following a sparring session, with former British and European bantamweight champion Ian ‘Dappa’ Napa, at the Ultrachem TKO Gym in Canning Town, Marsh took a little time out to speak about the surprise news. “I’ve only just found out today the fights on. I’m really pleased to get another chance at the Commonwealth title (In his last fight in February, Marsh lost by way of eleventh round stoppage against Jason Booth in an attempt to win the Nottingham man's British belt and pick up the Commonwealth strap.)

"I saw Kris box against Ian (gym mate Ian Bailey). He’s a good kid who knows what he’s doing. But I’ll find a way to beat him.

"I’m in the gym today as usual. I’ve been training and sparring anyway but I’m stepping it up now. I’m really happy and just want to get in there.”

Marsh’s long time trainer/manager Johnny Eames, who was by Marsh’s side throughout (pic above by Gianluca di Caro), added, “I’m obviously pleased to see Matthew get back in the mix for a title.

"I was a little upset with the decision when he lost the British title challenge to Jason Booth, but fair play to Frank Maloney he promised us another title shot and has come up with with a title fight for Matthew. Which is more than other promoters have done for Matthew in his career. He has been kept on the back burner by other promoters and match makers.

"I see this as a great opening for Matthew. A fight that he should win, the kid he’s fighting is a good southpaw whose unbeaten in eleven. It could prove to be a tricky fight as Kris is so tall but I feel that Matthew has the desire and ability to win.”

Also on the Sky Sports televised show will be County Durham's Nigel Wright versus Midlander Dean Harrison for the English light-welterweight title.