Wednesday, October 4
HAMMERED HOME
Josh Warrington made it clear during Wednesday’s open workout that he doesn’t believe in exaggeration. Both Warrington and Leigh Wood went through the motions, as expected, during the fight week. The fighters are often tired of talking and struggling with their weight, so it’s not the best time to get exciting quotes from them. Darren Barker and Ali Drew learned this the hard way as they tried to provoke Warrington for some juicy quotes. However, Warrington responded by saying that he’d rather be at home watching Homes Under the Hammer. He also expressed his anticipation for the press conference the following day, which he predicted would consist of the same old talk they’ve been saying for weeks. Not exactly groundbreaking news.
Thursday, October 5
DECADE UP
Thursday marked exactly 10 years since Anthony Joshua’s professional debut. The night was filled with excitement at the packed-out o2 Arena as Joshua emerged as a promising figure in British boxing. However, people were confused when he was introduced as ‘the future people’s champion’. Even now, the meaning behind that line remains a mystery. Additionally, Frank Smith took the opportunity to return to the cameras after his Buildergate Saga. He appeared alongside Wally Downes Jnr, the journalist who posted the viral clip where Smith questioned builders’ opinions. Reflecting on the response he received, Smith humorously mentioned that he considered moving to Asia and changing his name.
Friday, October 6
FIVE GUYS
Five years ago on Friday, Callum Johnson made headlines by dropping Artur Beterbiev with a left hook, although he was eventually stopped in the fourth round. Despite retiring in November, Johnson recently hinted at a comeback by posting a topless photo on Instagram with the caption ‘fight date soon’. Another noteworthy return on Friday was that of Liam Cameron, who had been missing from the boxing scene since April 2018 due to a failed post-fight urine test. Although he tested positive for a substance found in cocaine, which is not considered a performance-enhancing drug, he faced a four-year ban. Now, after serving his time, Cameron made a successful comeback by defeating Robbie Connor on points in Sheffield.
Liam Cameron celebrates his comeback win
Saturday, October 7
GOT WOOD
Leigh Wood continues to defy expectations. Throughout his career, Wood has faced setbacks and comebacks, showcasing his unpredictable journey in the boxing world. Saturday’s post-fight press conference was especially noteworthy as the defeated Josh Warrington and the victorious Wood sat down together with promoter Eddie Hearn. It’s rare for a losing boxer, especially one who was stopped, to face the media alongside the winner. Additionally, the press conference was live-streamed, which is unusual, as it’s typically covered by a small number of cameras and sleepy journalists who regret their decision to drive home instead of staying in a hotel.
Sunday, October 8,
ZURDO CRUISING
After his defeat to Dmitrii Bivol, Zurdo Ramirez made a triumphant return by defeating Joe Smith Jr in a 10-round Vegas fight. The catchweight of 193lbs raised interest, as it falls between the light-heavy and cruiserweight divisions. Ramirez expressed his plan to move up to the cruiserweight division and become Mexico’s first-ever world champion in that weight class. Chris Billam-Smith, a British boxer, took notice of Ramirez’s decision and tweeted “Vegas anyone?” in response. Billam-Smith dreams of fighting in Vegas, and Ramirez would make a fitting opponent for him on The Strip. It’s worth noting that Bill Foley, the owner of AFC Bournemouth, also owns the Las Vegas Golden Knights ice hockey team.
Monday, October 9
MCINTYRE IS FREE
On Monday, the tale of Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre concluded as the American trainer received a 20-month suspended sentence for his firearm offenses. McIntyre was arrested at Manchester airport the day after cornering Chris Eubank Jr against Liam Smith. He had a gun in his luggage, which could have resulted in a minimum five-year prison sentence. However, after several character witnesses, including Terence Crawford, the judge decided to suspend McIntyre’s sentence for two years. This not only benefits McIntyre and his family but also the fighters he works with, including Crawford and Eubank. Oliver McManus, a former boxing writer turned court reporter, provided live updates on the proceedings via Twitter.