TYLER Denny, the craftsman who has a cartload of upset wins on his record, looks to pull off another Mission Impossible on Saturday.
Rowley Regis’ former European champ bids to take the British and Commonwealth middleweight titles from George Liddard on Matchroom’s show at the Coper Box Arena, London.
It’s a tough ask for the 34-year-old southpaw. Billericay’s Liddard is unbeaten in 13, eight wins coming inside distance.
But, then, Felix Cash, Bradley Rea and Brad Pauls were all tough asks. Denny was underdog for all of them and make a mockery of the odds against him.
The Black Country boxer is aware he’ll be underdog again on Saturday night and relishes the role. He told Boxingscene: “I do rate him. I think he’s a good fighter. He’s got a bit of everything. But I asked for this fight – this is the one I’ve been calling for, so I’m buzzing for it. I just can’t wait to get in there.
“You look at his amateur background – four national titles. Good hand speed. Good feet. He can mix it on the inside as well when he needs to. But I’m not going to blow too much smoke up his a**e – I’m coming to beat him.
“I don’t believe I’m the underdog, but it is what it is – and I get it, because he’s a Matchroom guy. Eddie Hearn’s saying he thinks he’s world level already. Which is good. I like that they build him up, because when I beat him they’ll have to say the same about me.
“I’ve gone from a boy to a man in the last few fights and, fight on fight, you’re going to see a better and better George Liddard – better every time,” said Liddard, speaking in a recent interview with BBC Radio Essex.
“Tyler’s a good opponent. He can be awkward, he’s caused a lot of good fighters some problems so I’m not taking anything for granted but I will get the job done on March 21st in devastating fashion.
“If I can make Copper Box my fortress for a bit, then we get the big world title (fight) hopefully at the London Stadium.
“Give me 18 months and I’ll be standing here as a world champion.”
History has shown us Denny has smashed the grand plans of a host of young, unbeaten prospects. History has told us you write off Denny at your peril.
The fight is streamed on DAZN.
