SEAN McCOMB is aiming for a shot at super-lightweight gold and fights against the biggest names in the division. Now, the Belfast southpaw is tasked with Ben Crocker atop GBM Sports bill, as he continues his comeback after a controversial defeat last year.
McComb, 19-2 (5 KOs), ventured to New York to face Arnold Barboza Jr. last April but was left shortchanged on his travels when the judges awarded a highly contentious split-decision to Barboza, who then upset Jack Catterall but failed in his world title challenge.
‘The Public Nuisance’ has since returned to action himself, comfortably outpointing Alexis Nahuel Torres in a six-round affair when shaking off 14 months’ of ring rust on his GBM Sports debut in June.
Now, McComb, who is unranked at present, bids to get back into world title contention as he kickstarts a fresh charge for the 140lb throne against Swansea’s Ben Crocker, 14-0-1 (2 KOs), who puts his IBF European super-lightweight title on the line.
In the press release for the event, McComb admitted revealed his plans to gain an IBF ranking by overcoming Crocker, before taking on Lindolfo Delgado and then reigning IBF super-lightweight world champion, Richardson Hitchins.
“I see a clear pathway to the world title starting in Sheffield on September 27th against Ben Crocker. The IBF European Championship is on the line and a win should see me enter the rankings top ten, where I’ve already got an amateur win over Lindolfo Delgado.
“He’s ranked #3 now, so maybe me and him could rematch in a world title eliminator for a shot at Richardson Hitchins. So we’re in touching distance here.
“First, I have to beat Ben Crocker next month, so all my focus is on that. I like what I’ve seen of him – he’s a tall, rangy southpaw and he likes to finish last in every exchange. It’s a good style, but I’ll figure it out and I’ll get the win.
“I think our styles match well to make a good fight for the fans and a really important fight for my career.”
Meanwhile, Crocker was full of respect for his opponent, whom he admits to be a genuine world level operator, but maintained that ‘his eyes are on the prize’ in what could be a potentially life-changing contest for the Welshman.
“Sean McComb is a great fighter. He’s a slick, awkward southpaw and he’s undeniably world level, so this is a massive fight for me. Beating him will open so many doors for me and push me on to bigger fights and bigger opportunities. I’ve got my eyes on the prize. I’m going to go in there and get the job done, simple as that,
On the undercard, British and Commonwealth super-bantamweight champion Tysie Gallagher, 9-2 (0 KOs), attempts a second defence of her belts against undefeated South-Yorkshirewoman Ellie Hellewell (7-0, 1 KO), whilst hard-hitting Dutch light-heavyweight Gradus Kraus, 7-0 (7 KOs), is also confirmed for an appearance.
