McDonnell hoping to continue sensational run against former world title challenger

Jamie McDonnell will have to sacrifice his Christmas celebrations in order to prepare for the second defence of his European bantamweight title against Malik Bouziane at the Doncaster Dome on 22 January.

McDonnell will be hoping that the 22 January will prove to be a lucky omen as this is the exact date on which he outpointed Ian Napa (on a split decision) to claim the British and Commonwealth crowns which kickstarted a remarkable 2010 for the vastly improved Yorkshireman.

After his close (and in fairness, disputed) victory over Napa, the rejuvenated McDonnell crossed the Channel and belted France’s Jerome Arnould to defeat in ten rounds to win the vacant European title just two months later. Jamie continued his superb run of form by easily stopping overmatched Italian Rodrigo Bracco in three rounds in July and has since enjoyed a well deserved rest.

Mandatory challenger Malik Bouziane is likely to provide McDonnell with his toughest test to date. Last time out, the Frenchman (13-1-1) narrowly failed to capture the IBF world super-flyweight title when being held to a majority draw by Simphiwe Nonggayi in April. The Frenchman is a former European bantamweight title-holder and began his reign by dethroning common opponent Ian Napa with a decisive points victory in Brentwood in March 2009 so will not be afraid to travel.

Bouziane went on to make two successful defences before relinquishing his EBU crown to concentrate on his world title bid, ironically opening the door for McDonnell to contest the vacant title against his countryman Arnould.