Missing a shot at the vacant WBA lightweight championship belt, Ohara Davies (23-2, 16 KOs) could take some solace fighting in the knockout stages.
The ranked number three candidate was disappointed when it was not put forward by the WBA, who nominated Alberto Puello (1) and Batyr Akhmedov (6) for selection. Josh Taylor belts. Ismael Barroso (2) will fight the winner.
“When I learned about the WBA decision, I was blown away,” Davies said via Probellum’s press release.
“I feel like I should be given the next spot because I was going to fight Ismael Barroso, but he pulled out of our fight, so I don’t see how he could be the starting challenger. bound for the title.”
Davies returns to action this Saturday (without a confirmed opponent) at the Leeds Utd FC Banqueting Suite, a card that also features Archie Sharp and a major event related to Jack Bateson and Diego Ruiz.
‘Two Tanks’ may not have to fight for a world title yet but facing Sandor Martin will be a real test of Davies’ top credentials. The 30-year-old Londoner says it will also give him a chance to get one more on the Spaniard’s promoter Eddie Hearn.
“There’s a sense of relief when I take on Sandor Martin in an elimination match, because now I have the chance to wipe the smile off Eddie Hearn’s face.”
“Martin is a good fighter,” he continued.
“He worked hard and he came on as the underdog against Mikey Garcia and won. He’s fast and a good fighter but one thing I do know is that he’s not a puncher. And all it takes is one right hand on the chin, from me, and it will all be over.
“After this game in Leeds, give me eight to 10 weeks and I’ll be ready for Sandor, whether it’s here or in Spain.”
