By: Sean Crose
Daniel Jacobs said: “I am delighted to be back in the ring. “I have always dreamed of fighting in London as a professional, and I look forward to fighting in front of a great crowd. I’m giving it my all on February 12.” The former middleweight champion was referring to his showdown next month with John Ryder at London’s Alexandra Palace, a match that has now been announced via email. Matchroom Boxing press release 37-3 Jacobs is looking to maintain his form after losing over the past five years to top shooters Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin.
The New Yorker’s last game was a close victory in 2020 over the famous Gabriel Rosado. Jacobs is, of course, celebrity, having overcame cancer and adoring his fans through his gaming prowess and often unassuming personality. He has also proven himself to be quite skilled. There are still people – including this author – who feel that he should have been awarded the decisive victory for the 2017 battle with Golovkin. Plus, it’s always interesting for the man to watch the action.
For Ryder – this fight creates a real opportunity. If he’s the best at Jacobs, the win is sure to make waves among fighting fans. “This is the fight I needed to really reach my full potential,” Ryder said. “Jacobs is a great fighter but he got his time and now it’s time for me to shine! My dreams are at stake on February 12th and fate awaits. Time to get right back to where I needed to be.” An added benefit to Ryder 30-5 would be that he gets to play Jacobs in front of his hometown crowd in London.
The Jacobs-Ryder match is scheduled to last 12 innings at super-middleweight and will be broadcast live on the DAZN streaming service.
