Big Dallas in huge let down

It was supposed to be a glorious homecoming for heavyweight Tom Dallas in front of his Kent fans and live on Sky Sports from Gillingham but the Chatham giant failed to impress in a debateable and dull eight round points decision over durable American Zack Page.

Having his third outing of 2011 the 26 year-old Dallas (15-0) struggled against a man 12 years his senior and looked a little gung ho as the well prepared journeyman used the same ring guile that has helped him take British rivals Michael Sprott, Tyson Fury and recent Prizefighter winner Mike Perez the distance.

Dallas had previously gone six rounds on just one occasion and lacked ideas against an opponent with one win in nine. There were few highlights in a dire affair that was one paced throughout and although promoter Frank Maloney thinks Tom is a top heavyweight prospect the reality is until he has wins against the likes of Sprott or Sam Sexton we will remain uncertain of his ability to cut it at the championship level.

Referee Ian John Lewis scored 78-76 for Dallas but it was Page who received the cheers while Dallas endured some boos. Page protested against the verdict while the jury remains undecided on Dallas.