A BRITISH heavyweight title fight on the BBC – now that does take me back.
As a pensioner, it reminds me of the days of Henry Cooper, Joe Bugner and Frank Bruno.
The Beeb has got involved again thanks to a new partnership with major promoters Boxxer.
And the relationship begins with a barnstormer – Burton’s Frazer Clarke and Jeamie Tshikeva know to fans as simply TKV – for the Lonsdale Belt.
The pair clash at Derby’s Vaillant Live Arena on Saturday, October 25, with the bout aired live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
Olympic Bronze medallist Clarke came agonisingly close to capturing the British crown in March 2024, battling to a thrilling draw with Fabio Wardley at The O2 in London.
The return, a year ago, saw the 34-year-old stopped in the first.
Tottenham’s TKV suffered disappointment earlier this year when his own British title challenge against David Adeleye ended in controversy. Ahead on the scorecards and seemingly in control of the fight, he was denied his moment by a contentious refereeing decision.
Both men are determined to leave nothing to chance this time round.
Clarke said: “It’s amazing to be headlining on the BBC. It is such a big platform. There are going to be so many eyes on this fight, and I can’t wait to get out there and put on a show.
“I’ve always dreamed of winning the British title. I’m so hungry for this fight, so eager to get in there and finally make it mine. The fact it’s happening live on primetime BBC makes it even better.
“I’m going to be ice cold in there. I’ve travelled the world as an amateur, I’ve had my ups and downs as a pro, and I’ve learned from all of it. I’m seasoned, I’m hardened, and I’m more focused and determined for this fight than ever before.
“Jeamie is a solid all-round fighter, but I know the level I’m at and the work I’ve been putting in at the gym. He won’t hear the final bell. I’m a more complete fighter now than I’ve ever been, and with that comes knockouts.
“My mindset is simple – go in there, get the win and make a statement. I’m not looking past Jeamie, but I will go straight through him.”
Jeamie TKV said: “I’m excited to get the opportunity to showcase my skills in front of millions on primetime television. People are going to see things from me they haven’t seen before. I’ve got certain skills that are rare for a heavyweight, and I’m capable of bringing something different every fight.
“Me and Frazer have been going back and forth for years, and now’s the right time. We finally get to settle it for the British title, and to do it on a massive platform like the BBC makes it even bigger.
“Frazer’s a good fighter, and I expect the best version of him to turn up, but I’m bringing the heat and the fire.”
