Sprott wins in Germany to set up Harrison rematch

Michael Sprott stopped Werner Kreiskott in just 54 seconds of the opening round in Dusseldorf tonight and is now expected to meet Audley Harrison for the vacant European heavyweight title on 9 April at London’s Alexandra Palace.

Sprott, appearing on the undercard of sparring partner’s Wladimir Klitschko’s WBO mandatory defence against Eddie Chambers tonight, got down to business immediately against journeyman Kreiskott and wobbled the German with a right hand.

Kreiskott’s legs froze to the canvas and while he partially blocked Sprott’s follow-up attack, another right hand punctured Kreiskott’s guard which prompted the referee to step in, somewhat prematurely, before the minute mark.

The 35-year-old Sprott, who had lost four of his last five before tonight in good company on the European circuit, improves his record to 32-14 (17) while the hapless Kreiskott slips to 7-14-1 (5).