AFTER being left in the dark, even if just for a short while, Boxxer fighters can now sing songs around the campfire as Ben Shalom turns the page to a new chapter.
The promoter’s broadcast partnership with the BBC was officially announced earlier this morning, meaning that a stable of British fighters, their knuckles only getting itchier, can hopefully look forward to a more encouraging state of affairs.
Here, Boxing News takes a look at eight possible matchups, involving a selection of Boxxer’s biggest stars, that could materialise before long.
Ben Whittaker vs Dan Azeez
With several of his domestic counterparts operating under the Queensberry Promotions banner, it would only make sense for Ben Whittaker to set his sights on the next best available option.
And instead of facing an international opponent, who very few people have heard of, Dan Azeez could represent an ideal dance partner following the 28-year-old’s second-round finish over Liam Cameron.
Azeez, of course, has suffered points defeats to Joshua Buatsi and Lewis Edmondson, but should nonetheless offer plenty of resistance against Whittaker.
Viddal Riley vs Jack Massey
After claiming his British title with a dominant display against Cheavon Clarke, Viddal Riley should have no problem defending the belt against an equally tough operator.
It could even be said that Jack Massey represents a more formidable test for the 28-year-old, especially when considering his titanic effort to outpoint Isaac Chamberlain last year.
Soon after, the Mancunian suffered a sixth-round stoppage defeat to Jai Opetaia but, despite that, remains a technically proficient and durable customer at European level.
Callum Simpson vs Kevin Lele Sadjo
In what would be a bold, but perhaps calculated, risk, Callum Simpson may choose to defend his European title against hard-hitting contender Kevin Lele Sadjo.
Ahead of his 10th-round finish over Ivan Zucco in June, much of the pre-fight talk centred around a potential domestic dustup between Simpson and Mark Jeffers, who ultimately suffered his first professional defeat on the same card.
As a result, Sadjo could emerge as an appealing replacement, with his explosive style representing an intriguing match for Simpson’s typically industrious approach.
Lauren Price vs Mikaela Mayer
After unifying the welterweight division with a comprehensive victory over Natasha Jonas, it is only right that Lauren Price earns her shot at claiming the final piece of the puzzle.
Standing in her way of undisputed status is WBO world champion Mikaela Mayer, who comes off an equally impressive performance against Sandy Ryan.
Their matchup – which, in truth, is the only viable option for either fighter at 147lbs – was mooted several months ago, but hopefully now represents a more realistic time for both champions.
Martin Bakole vs Michael Hunter
Michael Hunter was supposed to square off against Kubrat Pulev this month but, as with anything that involves notorious promoter Don King, it would seem that an element of uncertainty remains attached to their matchup.
Instead, the American could represent a possible opponent for Martin Bakole, who comes off a highly-contentious draw with Efe Ajagba.
Given his defeat to Hunter back in 2018, too, Bakole – who must now prove that he remains a ferocious force – would most likely welcome an opportunity to exact his revenge.
Caroline Dubois vs Terri Harper
While 135lbs has evolved into a flourishing division, not least because of world champions Beatriz Ferreira and Stephanie Han, there is one matchup which, quite simply, needs to get made.
More so from a domestic perspective, the rivalry between Caroline Dubois and Terri Harper has been bubbling nicely, introducing just the right amount of needle ahead of what should be an all-British unification showdown.
With Harper having recently joined Jake Paul’s MVP Promotions stable, though, perhaps Dubois will be forced to explore alternative options.
Adam Azim vs Sandor Martin
While not carrying the same name value of a Regis Prograis or Arnold Barboza Jr – two more possible opponents – Sandor Martin nonetheless represents a genuine test for any fighter with world level ambitions.
The crafty southpaw would almost certainly provide Adam Azim with a series of greater challenges than what Sergey Lipinets, his last opponent, was able to offer during their one-sided encounter in February.
Unlike Lipinets, Martin is arguably at the peak of his powers and, against an explosive talent like Azim, could enjoy his fair share of success in an absorbing super-lightweight battle.
Frazer Clarke vs Jeamie TKV
A heavyweight clash between Frazer Clarke and Jeamie TKV, for the vacant Lonsdale Belt, has been ordered by the British Boxing Board of Control.
Clarke returned to winning ways earlier this year following his brutal stoppage defeat to Fabio Wardley, while TKV has not fought since his controversial encounter with David Adeleye.
In that fight, the Londoner had edged much of the early sessions before finding himself on the receiving end of a sharp left hook, just after the referee called ‘break’, in the sixth round.
But now, it would appear that TKV could soon land himself a second stab at the British title.
