London, UK (23 August 2020) Shakan Pitters is the new British Light-Heavyweight Champion after defeating Chad Sugden by unanimous points decision in Redditch last night.

The fight was originally scheduled for March 28 but was delayed when the COVID-19 pandemic struck and the lockdown ensued.

Shakan used his long reach and spearing jab to keep the aggressive Sugden at bay and in the second round he split Sugden’s lip with a big uppercut that required a check from the ringside doctor but was allowed to carry on.

Big Shak chose his punches well with scything left hooks and slicing right hands as he picked up the points lead.

He was also impressive in controlling the ring space and the centre of the ring.

Newark warrior Sugden had some success landing on Shak with right hands and left hooks, but rarely troubled the 6ft 6in Birmingham fighter.

All three judges’ had it for Pitters with wide scores of 118-111 (twice) and 119-110 which reflected his dominance.

British boxing legend John Conteh earlier backed Pitters to win his old British title and believes he could become a great champion,

Pitters said, “Chad was very game and I take my hat off to him. I kept it long and punished him as he came in. He was a very tough opponent but he didn’t trouble me. I wanted to keep things basic and it worked. I’m always learning and this was my first twelve-rounder. I’d give that performance a six or seven out of ten. It was a decent performance but I’m always improving.”

8 x 3 Minute Rounds Cruiserweight Contest
Isaac Chamberlain WTKO3 (1:27) Antony Woolery

Brixton cruiserweight Isaac Chamberlain sizzled in his return to the ring after a two year lay off to blow away Antony Woolery inside three rounds.

IC got to work with his sharp jabs in the early round and showed composure as he moved around the ring.

In the second round towards the end Chamberlain landed a good right that made Woolery come out swinging.

Chamberlain upped the tempo in the third round as he started landing left hooks and unsettling Woolery. He started working to the body more and got Woolery to the ropes and then landed a hard left hand to the body that folded the Wolverhampton former soldier.

“It’s been a tough two years, but I’m happy to be finally over that and get out tonight and showcase my skills. The left hook is my money punch and mixed with my strength and conditioning it was a real potent weapon. I just took my time, I knew he’d rush me. My corner told me to relax and get into my flow and boom I took him out.”

Chamberlain will get little rest, he will now return to action in two weeks’ time in another eight-round contest.

6 x 3 Minute Rounds Welterweight Contest
Conah Walker WPTS6 (60-54) Nathan Bendon

Conah Walker should have been up against Kaisee Benjamin for the Midlands Area Welterweight title, but Benjamin withdrew earlier in the week from a stomach viral infection.

Sutton Coldfield’s Nathan Bendon stepped in at the last minute and it was a rematch of their encounter in May last year that Walker won on points over six-rounds.

Walker was on top from the start, moving into range using a stiff jab and strong right hand before landing a hard body shot, then moving or swaying out of the way.

Walker kept working well to head and body and Bendon had some success with his right hand at points.

It was Walkers better work rate and cleaner punches that got him the decision again.

6 x 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
Michael Hennessy Jr WPTS6 (58-57) Tom Brennan

Undefeated middleweight Michael Hennessy Jr saw off the spirited challenge of Tom Brennan with a six-round points victory.

Burford’s Brennan called out for the fight during the lockdown and Hennessy accepted the challenge coming in fit and ready.

Hennessy was working with a new corner team of Junior Saba and John Pegg and he looked more composed and balanced as he pumped out a stiff left jab.

The Sevenoaks talent landed with some good clean body shots in the opening rounds and connected with a good right hand in the second.

In the fourth he showed some good combinations punching and landing with more clean body shots.

Although the score should have been wider than scored by the referee, Hennessy Jr. was happy to get a win after nine months out of the ring.

He said, “He was tough customer and I felt in control in there. It was good to get the ring rust off and I can’t wait to fight in two weeks’ time again. I think I showed new things in there tonight that I’d been working on and there is still plenty of improvements to come.”

The Sevenoaks talent takes his record to 4-0-1 and will be out in action again on September 5th in Wakefield.

4 x 3 Minute Rounds Super Welterweight Contest
Idris Virgo WKO1 (Time: 1:44) Josh Hodgins

In a Birmingham derby Idris Virgo didn’t even break into a sweat as he dispatched of Josh Hodgins inside one round with a sickening left hook to the body that had Hodgins scream out in pain.

The encounter was expected to be a fiery one after Friday’s ‘water fight’ during a video interview when Virgo squeezed a bottle of water into Hodgins’ face and the pair ended up squirting each other.

Virgo, the former Love Island contest, said, “They call me the Body Breaker, as soon as I hit the body they go. I’ll destroy any opponent put in front of me. Step in my way and you’re gone. I might have been in Love Island but I ain’t showing no love in the ring. I’m serious and I mean business, I’m here to show people I can fight.”

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (22 August 2020) One of Britain’s greatest ever fighters John Conteh MBE has given Shakan Pitters a massive boost hours before his showdown with Chad Sugden for the British Light-Heavyweight Title, exclusively LIVE on Channel 5 from 10pm tonight.

The fight legend, who memorably won the WBC World Light-Heavyweight title against Jorge Victor Ahumada in 1974 at the Empire Pool, Wembley, transcended the sport in the 70s and become a household name through appearing on the iconic TV show Superstars.

Conteh held the prestigious Lonsdale belt – that Pitters challenges for tonight – over 47 years ago when he defeated rival Chris Finnegan with a hard fought points decision and believes Pitters could become a great champion in his own right.

“I think he has the potential to be not only a champion but a great fighter and his record proves that at the moment with thirteen fights and thirteen wins and four inside the distance. He has some punching power there to win the British title,” Said Conteh.

“He’s certainly got the ability to do it, he’s got the desire. I’m sure he’s won those fights because of his dedication, you have to be fully committed to fulfil your potential,”

“Give everything you’ve got, know what you’re going into. My trainer George Francis said ‘It’s won or lost on the training ground’ so you’ve got to give it 100 percent, always. That’s what Shakan’s doing at the moment, he’s unbeaten in thirteen, so there’s no slacking,”

“The domestic light-heavyweight division looks great at the moment with plenty of talents coming through so it’s good to see it in such fantastic shape. Forty-six years after I won the British title against Chris Finnegan, it would be great to see Shakan holding it,”

With boxing’s big return to free-to-air TV tonight on Channel 5, Pitters is looking to put on a big show with a potentially massive viewing audience that will further raise his profile and Conteh well knows the importance of a free TV platform as his fights were broadcast on the BBC.

He added, “For a boxer to build his profile it’s essential to get in front of the public and with free TV on Channel 5 he’ll get through to millions of people like I did on BBC. You have to leave it in the hands of the promoter who is guiding you to get the best exposure, which they’re doing. But Shakan has to focus on his job and he needs to concentrate on winning the British title tonight.”

PITTERS V SUGDEN IN THE MEDIA

Daily Star
Shakan Pitters aiming to put lockdown quiz defeats behind him on boxing return

BBC Sport Online
Shakan Pitters on West Brom rejection, new goals and a British title shot

Boxingscene
Shakan Pitters Reflects on The Long Road as Sugden Bout Looms

Seconds Out
Shakan Pitters vs Chad Sugden weights, TV channel & undercard

Daily Star Sunday
Saucy Shak To Go On The Attack

World Boxing News
Chad Sugden raring to go ahead of Shakan Pitters test on UK TV
British Boxing News
Pitters and Sugden get heated in interview

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm
In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain in an eight-round contest against Wolverhampton’s Antony Woolery; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo faces Birmingham’s Josh Hodgins over four rounds; Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker faces Nathan Bendon in a six round welterweight contest, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr takes on Burford’s Tom Brennan over six rounds.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (22 August 2020) Tonight at a purpose built TV production studio in Redditch, the 26-year-old one-time world kick-boxing champion challenges 6ft 6in Birmingham tower Shakan Pitters in an East v West Midlands derby that has got the diehards drooling.

‘Fighting for the British title live on Channel 5, it doesn’t get any better. The Lonsdale is the best belt and I want to earn the right to have a photo with it wrapped round my waist,’ chirped the Nottingham-born ‘2Slick’ who cemented his worth by upsetting ex Commonwealth 12st king Luke Blackledge, then holding world rated Craig Richards to an eight round draw in the second half of last year.

‘The opportunity may have come sooner than expected but it’s definitely not too soon. Win this and I’m on my way.

‘We got an inkling (original co-challenger Craig) Richards might pull out so I was put on stand-by anyway. But I’ve been preparing for this since I was five years old, not just eight weeks.

‘Though I’ve not had a 10 rounder yet, I think the Board considered the calibre of my recent opponents and determined I was more than able.

‘I always keep myself in shape but I’ve trained as hard as I ever have. This has given me an extra buzz. Besides, I enjoy challenging myself. I’m really excited to test my skills against another good fighter. I like being the underdog, proving people wrong.’

Strongman Sugden, who hails from one of the nation’s most formidable fighting families, suggests that his substitution actually enhances the clash for the vacant crown.

‘This is a far more exciting fight for the fans than Pitters v Richards would have been. At some stage, it’s gonna light up!’ claims the former K1 star whose younger brother Regis is an undefeated pro welter.

Unbeaten co-challenger Pitters, the sky-scraping English champion, will present the sternest examination of Sugden’s formidable fighting credentials but John Costello, the Brummie who coaches Chad in tandem with his ex-world kick-boxing champion dad Dean Sugden, is confident that he is piloting the better machine.

‘Shakan’s a nice lad, a gentleman, who uses his physical attributes well. He’s very long behind his front hand then walks you on to his right,’ assesses Costello who steered Swindon’s Jamie Cox to a world super-middle title challenge.

‘But Shak came to boxing late whereas Chad’s from a pedigree fighting family. Fighting’s not in Shak’s soul, like it’s in Chad’s soul. This is totally the wrong fight for Pitters. Chad’s done very well against tall lads before in the kick-boxing and has a huge advantage physically in this fight. Chad’s unpredictable with a great sense of distance and good positioning. Shak won’t have dealt with anyone like Chad before, trust me.’

Qualified personal trainer Chad knows that he’ll have to deliver a career best effort if he is to get his hand raised.

‘Look, Shak’s a top fighter. He does plenty right,’ concedes Sugden.

‘But I fight different to most. Others attacked him in straight lines, I’ll be coming in at angles. Let’s see how he deals with that. And let’s see how mentally strong he is. I came through against Richards after breaking my nose in round two. I’ve been knocked down in the kick-boxing and prevailed. I’ve dealt with adversity. I’m war tested. Is Shakan? He’s not been the places in the ring that I have yet. I’ll take him there tonight.

‘Shak’s a freak at the weight but I’ve sparred with (6ft 4in ex British champion) Hosea Burton four times for this fight and he’s probably better than Pitters. Shak’s shoulders are big but he’s pretty slight, certainly not as thick as I am. I gain in other areas; strength, movement, timing. Though Shak’s a good bit older, he started far later than me. I’ve been boxing, since I’ve been walking.

‘Obviously, I’ll be trying to close the distance, Shak will be trying to maintain it. He’ll try to capitalise on his height, use the jab a lot, then load up with the back hand and those big right uppercuts. If I have to be clever, I can. He’ll get a shock when I land my jab on him. He’ll be hard to hit to the head early on so we’ll attack the body.

‘Now I just want to get in there. I’ll give it all I’ve got, push the pace all the way through. I’m coming to win every round.

‘I win because my ability is better and my boxing IQ is higher. Shak’s a tough lad but I will break him mentally, then physically. I expect to stop him.’

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm
In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain in an eight-round contest against Wolverhampton’s Antony Woolery; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo faces Birmingham’s Josh Hodgins over four rounds; Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker faces Nathan Bendon in a six round welterweight contest, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr takes on Burford’s Tom Brennan over six rounds.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (21 August 2020) Boxing makes it’s long awaited return to free-to-air TV tomorrow night when Channel 5 broadcast exclusively LIVE the big showdown between Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden for the British Light-Heavyweight Championship and the boxers featuring on the undercard have been given a massive boost.

The five-fight card presented from a purpose built TV studio in Redditch features stars from the Hennessy Sports stable including cruiserweight contender Isaac Chamberlain and hot middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr, plus welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo and welterweight Conah Walker*.

Pitters and Sugden will be televised live, but promoter Mick Hennessy has confirmed that Channel 5 will show all the other fights on the card in some capacity during the two-hour broadcast starting at 10pm, ensuring the boxers receive maximum free-to-air exposure on primetime across the UK.

Hennessy said, “Boxing has been absent from free-to-air TV screens for what seems like an eternity, but I’m thrilled that tomorrow tonight it finally returns to Channel 5 and we’re all really looking forward to finally seeing Shakan and Chad battle it out for the British Light-Heavyweight Title. We will also get to see the talents of Isaac as he returns to the ring and aims to get back on course towards title contention. What I’m really happy with is that the whole card will also get crucial terrestrial coverage on Channel 5, so Michael, Idris and Conah will see their profile and stock rise considerably. We have been receiving messages this week from eager fans’ asking how they can see the undercard and I’m delighted that their needs are now catered for and they will get to see it all for free on Channel 5.”

*Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker (7-0-1, 2 KO’s) was scheduled to face Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin for the Vacant Midlands Area Championship on the card. Due to suffering from a stomach viral condition and upon medical advice, Benjamin has been withdrawn. Walker will remain on the show and will instead face Sutton Coldfield’s Nathan Bendon (3-2-1, 1 KO) in a six-round contest. This will be a rematch for the pair after Walker defeated Bendon by two points in a six-rounder last year in very competitive and close fight.

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm
In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain in an eight-round contest against Wolverhampton’s Antony Woolery; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo faces Birmingham’s Josh Hodgins over four rounds; Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker faces Nathan Bendon in a six round welterweight contest, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr takes on Burford’s Tom Brennan over six rounds.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (20 August 2020) British Light-Heavyweight title challengers Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden and their respective teams arrived today at the fight hotel in Redditch for their mandatory COVID-19 test before heading to their rooms to quarantine and await their results.

Hennessy Sports appointed the world leading genetics testing and digital health testing company Prenetics to undertake the integrated testing. Prenetics have successfully provided their services to the Premier League’s ‘Project Restart’ and The England and Wales Cricket Board.

The fierce Midlands clash between Birmingham’s Pitters and Newark’s Sugden takes place this Saturday night behind closed doors at a TV production facility in Redditch, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 across the UK.

Other boxers featuring on the card including Isaac Chamberlain, Michael Hennessy Jr., Idris Virgo and Conah Walker also took the mandatory test before quarantining in their hotel rooms.

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm
In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain in an eight-round contest against Wolverhampton’s Antony Woolery; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo faces Birmingham’s Josh Hodgins over four rounds; a fiery Midlands derby for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight title between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr takes on Burford’s Tom Brennan over six rounds.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (19 August 2020) British Light-Heavyweight Title contenders Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden came ‘head-to-head’ and the sparks began to fly as the clock ticks towards their big showdown this Saturday night, exclusively live on free-to-air in the UK on Channel 5 from 10pm.

The bitter Midlands rivals were due to clash over five months ago, but following the postponement of the original March 28 date due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdown, both fighters have been sniping at each other whilst waiting for the new date.

With the tension ratcheting up this week, tempers flared on the epress conference yesterday with a fiery exchange between the pair as Seconds Out host Danny Flexen – for the latest Boxing Unlocked special – attempted to get in between them and even he couldn’t separate the feuding pair.

Whilst starting off cordially and both predicting a hard fight and hoped that each other had prepared hard, it soon descended into a war of words as both attempted to out-do the other.

Shakan Pitters: He’s had plenty of black eyes.

Chad Sugden: Are you following me or something? I thought you didn’t do any research into what I do?

SP: I saw you in the first press conference and you had a black eye. Why are you getting black eyes Bro?

CS: So what? Just because I’m having hard sparring mate. Look when we get in there…it doesn’t matter. I had a black eye in my last fight and had a draw, it means nothing.

SP: You mean your draw with Craig? (smiling)

CS: Did you not see my face in that one, I had a broken nose in my one before that one. You’re laughing mate, you say you’re going to end my career, I’m 26, you’re 31-years-of-age, this is your last chance.

SP: You think?

CS: You’re done mate!

SP: Listen bro, this ain’t kickboxing. Man, this is boxing and like I said on Saturday I’m going to punch your face in. On Saturday I’m going to punch your face in, defo. You’ve shown up with countless black eyes. I can hit hard and I’m accurate with my shots. I just can’t wait to be landing on you.

Watch the full epress conference between Pitters and Sugden HERE and also the ‘head-to-head’ between Kaisee Benjamin and Conah Walker for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight Championship, plus Isaac Chamberlain, Idris Virgo and Michael Hennessy Jr.

London, UK (17 August 2020) Newark’s Chad Sugden recently suggested in an interview that the adversity he’d encountered and overcome inside boxing and kick-boxing rings plus the MMA octogen, accorded him a significant psychological edge over his Brummie co-challenger.

‘Chad says I’ve had everything my own way but that’s because I MAKE everything my own way,’ fired back the 6ft 6in high rise Pitters who remains relatively untested while racking up a perfect 13-0 slate.

‘Look, big talk is easy. I hope Mr Sugden keeps it up and I look forward to providing my response in the ring on the night. Let’s see what he’s saying after he feels my power. He ain’t ‘breaking nobody mentally’. Boxing is a completely different to kick-boxing. He’s so easy to hit.’

The 31 year old Jon Pegg managed father of one cemented this British title shot with a career-best 10 round unanimous decision over Scunthorpe strongman Dec Spelman to land the English crown last September. Alas, Covid-19 has been his only opponent over the ensuing 11 months.

‘All the stop-start was frustrating. Ideally, I’d have had my British title shot around last December,’ disclosed Shak, who was initially pitched to face Craig ‘Spider’ Richards in March.

‘But the gap won’t hinder me. I was given a boxing bag to train at my mum’s (house) so I had everything I needed bar the initial sparring.

‘I’ve recently caught up with some good rounds with (Olympic medallist and former British champion) Josh Buatsi and (15-1-1 Birmingham pro) Steed Woodall. I’ve sparred cruisers and heavies plus lighter weights and all styles. It doesn’t matter that Chad brings a different style to ‘Spider’. A true fighter can adapt to any opponent in the ring. I’m ready for every eventuality.’

While the athletic former West Bromwich Albion trainee would have entered as a marginal underdog against the world-rated Richards – only for the Crystal Palace man to withdraw – Shak shall start a prohibitive favourite over Sugden, in his quest to secure the domestic 175lb crown previously worn by the likes of Harvey, Mills, Turpin, Finnegan, Conteh, Andries, Woods, Cleverly and Bellew.

‘To be honest, I never look at the bookies odds. In my own mind, I’d have been a strong favourite over ‘Spider’ anyway,’ states Pitters who is coached by Paul ‘Soggy’ Counihan.

‘But fair play to Chad for stepping in. Like me, Chad’s from a fighting background, a fighting family. So we’ve similar stories. The respect’s there. He’s been given a big opportunity to step up but I’m confident in my ability to deal with anyone in the division.

‘I studied Chad’s draw with ‘Spider’. He did what he had to do but he’ll find Craig and me are completely different animals. Sure, Chad seems tough and strong but, at just six foot, he’d be a lot stronger down at super-middleweight. I’m coming down from cruiser, remember. I’m just too big and I bring too much. I believe I hold the advantage over Sugden in every single area.’

And with a seven-figure nationwide TV audience expected, the one-time Ultimate Boxxer winner knows the stage is set for him to sizzle to stardom.

‘Though I’ve prepared thoroughly for 12 hard solid rounds I expect to be too big, too strong,’ concludes Pitters.

‘If I perform to my full ability, I stop him. Whether the ref steps in, his dad slings in the towel or he’s flat on his back, he’ll not see the finish.’

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm

In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo; a fiery Midlands derby for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight title between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (5 August 2020) Idris Virgo, the 5ft 10in powerhouse from Birmingham with the Colgate smile and marble-carved physique, first courted the nation’s attention when he crashed on to the ITV hit show Love Island in 2018. Installed as a ‘bombshell’, the 27 year old bombed out of the idyllic Mallorca villa without meeting his match, after four episodes.

But the Handsworth-born hunk left quite an impression before he left the island and extensive coverage in the national ‘red tops’ saw his profile soar. He now intends to capitalise by knocking down contestants rather than ‘coupling up’ with them. Although I’m a Celebrity…, Celebs Go Dating and MTV’s The Challenge could be in the offing in the future.

Middleweight Virgo (5-0-1) will next feature on Hennessy Sports’ big show on Saturday 22nd August at a purpose built TV studio in Redditch, behind-closed-doors, headlined with the mouthwatering showdown between Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden for the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight Championship, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK.

‘I’m very handsome, a fittie, and I know I’m destined to be a superstar. Boxing will now be my platform,’ says Virgo, who already claims 171,000 Instagram followers.

‘Love Island opened doors and seriously changed my life. With regard to boxing, it’s helped massively with regard to increasing my profile and selling tickets.’

The middle of seven children, Idris’ fighting career, like so many, commenced on the school yard.

‘I was the hardest at my school, quite ‘The Chap’. I was actually a prefect and it does take a bit to get me going,’ he disclosed.

‘But I began boxing at 15,16, long before Love Island. This ain’t no gimmick. I had eight White Collar (bouts), losing just two, plus a dozen amateur which I mostly won. The reason I left the amateurs, aged 25, was the judges robbed me in the Midland Senior ABAs.’

Since sacrificing his vest, the Anthony Hull coached Virgo has conceded just two of the 22 rounds that constitute his unbeaten six fight pro career. While he is yet to register a stoppage win, the muscular middleweight warns us to expect an immediate change.

He says: ‘I’m known as ‘The Body Breaker’. In previous fights, I was content to take my time but now I intend putting opponents to sleep. I’ll set them up then chop ‘em down with body shots.’

Renowned Midlands fight figure Jon Pegg, who manages Virgo, concurs that he certainly has a future between the ropes, provided he can commit the gym hours.

‘Idris is a natural athlete who’d instantly be good at pretty much any sport he embraces. He’s got a very impressive build and puts his shots together well,’ says the likeable Brummie ‘fight face’ who also manages top-of-the-bill Shakan Pitters.

‘Because of that reality TV exposure, Iddy can shift tickets. Though he was cast as the bad guy in Love Island he’s actually a nice kid. He’s very busy doing his videos and stuff but, provided he hits the gym every day, there’s definitely belts in his future.’

Perhaps the only thing bigger than Virgo’s ego, is his ambition.

‘I’m not in this to mess about. I intend winning English, British, European and world middleweight titles,’ states Idris.

‘My appearance should certainly boost the ratings. The ladies love to lust over my sweaty body! Some jealous types will no doubt tune in, in the hope of seeing me get laid out but I guarantee I’ll disappoint them.

‘Because of my profile, every opponent has been desperate to make their name by taking me down but they never come through, Once I clout ‘em, their game plans disappear out the window.

‘When I come through in August, I’ll have another two six rounders before the end of this year against progressively better opponents. I’m targeting a British title shot by the end of next year.’

In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Pitters v Sugden clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo; a fiery Midlands derby for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight title between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (3 August 2020) 26-year-old east Midlander, Chad Sugden, takes his first step up the championship ladder when he confronts the unbeaten and towering Birmingham Shakan Pitters in a spicy looking showdown for the vacant British title at a purpose built production studio in Redditch on Saturday 22nd August, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5.

‘2Slick’ Sugden is a fighting man to the core and hails from one of the nation’s most renowned combat families and is intent on becoming the first man to beat Pitters and claim the Lonsdale belt.

‘My Dad Dean was a world kick boxing champion and I was taking classes in both kick-boxing and boxing from the age of five. My brother Regis is an unbeaten pro welter and another younger brother Bailey is heavily involved in K1, competes in ‘Glory’. We’re a proper fighting family. Don’t mess!’ warns the solid 6ft Sugden who earned his opportunity after just 65 pro rounds and 13 fights (one draw, one loss).

‘I started competing in light contact martial arts at eight or nine, had my first amateur boxing bout at just 11 and pursued both sports alongside each other during my teens. But I always loved boxing more. That’s what I watched on the tele and my idols were boxers as opposed to martial artists. Most of my wins in kick-boxing were down to my hands. I always sparred pro boxers, to keep my hands sharp.’

‘I had 20 odd amateur fights, got beat in a national junior final and won the Senior Midland ABAs. At 17, I didn’t think I was quite ready to box professionally but accepted a pro kick-boxing contract. When the ABA got wind that I was fighting for money they revoked my amateur boxing card.’

Combining fists and feet, chiller Chad scooped an ISKA world title, starred in the US, Middle East, Asia and all over Europe and scored five figure purses.

‘I got used to doing all the press conferences and fighting away from home as an underdog, before huge, fanatical audiences – all experiences that transfer over,’ he states.

‘But I always knew professional boxing was where I wanted to go. The exposure was that much greater. I’d been struggling for a bit with a stress fracture at the bottom of my spine and all the kicking wasn’t helping it. At 21, I finally took the plunge.

‘With boxing, there’s less weapons to worry about, two less limbs to avoid and the martial fights were shorter, five rounds maximum. Though the kick-boxing is a bit jumpy, darting in and out of range, you had to plant your feet for K1 or you get wiped out.’

After converting to conventional pugilism four years ago, Sugden acclimatized with 10 fights against predominantly imported journeymen but has sizzled since stepping up in competition over the past eight months.

Darwen’s ex-Commonwealth super-middle czar Luke Blackledge was comprehensively upset over eight rounds at Nottingham’s Harvey Hadden Centre last July while Dutch-based Ugandan southpaw Farouk Daku was shutout over eight at the same venue three months after.

However, it was Sugden’s spirited eight round draw against world rated ex British title challenger Craig Richards at the York Hall last December – Sugden’s first fight outside the Midland small halls – that alerted the cognoscenti of his championship credentials.

‘Billy Joe Saunders had broken my nose with a big uppercut in sparring but I couldn’t turn Craig Richards down,’ claims Chad

‘The nose went again in round two and, after that, I just had to focus on nicking rounds. While I can still see and my arms are still working, I’ll fight, man. Craig says he was robbed but no one else was saying that. Though I thought it was close on the night, when I watched it back I thought I edged it by a round.’

Co-coach John Costello, who steered Jamie Cox to a world title challenge, works with Sugden twice weekly at his Birmingham gym and is astonished by the Newark warrior’s innate ruggedness.

He claims: ‘I believe Chad’s the youngest Brit ever to secure a K1 contract and often he’d be required to fight three times a day.

‘He’s very strong physically and ridiculously tough; very resilient and absorbent. Jamie used Chad as his main sparring partner for his fight with George Groves. Jay dropped all the others but just couldn’t catch Chad clean.

‘Then Chad came into the Craig Richards fight on two weeks’ notice without any sparring because of his broken nose. When it went again in round two, he couldn’t breathe through his nose. Lasting the course was a victory in itself.’

Largely unknown before he was pitched with Pitters for the coveted Lord Lonsdale belt, strongman Sugden intends to announce himself spectacularly to the live national Channel Five audience.

‘I’m an old school, all round operator; a slick, aggressive counter puncher who moves well. I fight every fight differently,’ he disclosed.

‘I bring a presence to the ring. I’m very strong. I’m not the biggest knockout puncher but I’ve stopped a few with body shots.

‘I definitely want to defend the belt three times then move on. I’ve aspirations of European and world titles. The British light-heavyweight scene is so strong at the minute. If you’re a player here, you’re a player at world level.’

In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Pitters v Sugden clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo; a fiery Midlands derby for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight title between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (28 July 2020) Undefeated British Light-Heavyweight title contender Shakan Pitters has signed a long-term promotional agreement with renowned promoter Mick Hennessy as he advances to the next level of his career.

The Birmingham hot shot has won all 13 of his fights since turning professional in March 2017 and first came to public attention when he breezed through the Ultimate Boxxer 2 tournament in November 2018, winning three fights in one night to claim the top prize.

He captured his first professional title when he defeated Dec Spelman in a thrilling 10-round war to lift the English crown and close a successful 2019.  All set for a big 2020 with a challenge for the British title against Chad Sugden scheduled for March 28, Pitters then saw the fight cancelled just a week prior due to the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Hennessy this week delivered the exciting and long-awaited news that boxing’s big return to free-to-air TV screens will be the Pitters versus Sugden British title showdown which headlines a thrilling five-fight card, exclusively live and free on Channel 5.   

Also on the summer sizzler of a card will be the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo;fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr and a further Area Championship title fight to be confirmed that completes a real quality packed show.

At a towering 6’ 6”, ‘Big Shak’ stands, literally, head and shoulders above his 175lb rivals and combined with his long reach, it comes as no surprise that his idol is the legendary seven-time and five-weight World Champion Thomas ‘The Hitman’ Hearns who he shares physical similarities with.  

The all-action box-puncher possesses a solid and accurate left jab, knockout power in both hands and fast footwork, combined with his fighting heart and pride and a relentless desire to become a World Champion.   Mixed with his undoubted charisma, mega watt smile and persona, Hennessy believes he has all the tools and qualities to become a star in the sport and essentially a World Champion. 

Pitters’ natural athleticism was evident at an early age when he competed to a high level boxing in the juniors, but he was also a youth trainee footballer at West Bromwich Albion during his teenage years until he was released and then returned to boxing and pursued a career with his fists in the pros which has proved to be a dynamite choice.

Boxing also runs in the family blood with his father Colin, a professional middleweight in the early 1990s who once fought future WBC World Champion Richie Woodhall and top pros Steve Foster, Neville Brown and Adrian Dodson, plus his uncle Rob was also a top light-middleweight prospect.

Currently Pitters trains at Birmingham’s renowned factory of champions, the Eastside Gym in Bordesley Green, alongside IBF International Welterweight Champion Sam Eggington, and is managed by Jon Pegg and trained by Paul “Soggy’ Counihan.

Pitters joins the ever expanding and talented Hennessy Sports stable that includes recent top cruiserweight signing Isaac Chamberlain, European super-featherweight title contender Alex Dilmaghani and rising middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr., alongside Hennessy managed fighters Hughie Fury and Savannah Marshall.

With his new promotional deal in place with Hennessy, who developed Carl Froch and Tyson Fury into mainstream stars and took them to World Championship honours and his future fights to be broadcast on free-to-air Channel 5, Pitters is ecstatic and can’t wait to get started on August 22nd.

“I’m absolutely delighted to sign with Mick Hennessy and join the Hennessy Sports stable,” enthused Pitters.  “My career is at the next stage and I believe that Mick is the man to take me where I want to go.  His track record of spotting and developing talent into champions is second-to-none and I’m sure I can repay his faith in me by delivering Championship titles.  I’m super excited to be fighting regularly on Channel 5 in front of an audience of million upon millions of viewers and with my fighting style and personality, I have got a fantastic platform to become a household name.  The next leg of my journey begins on Saturday 22nd August when I challenge for the British title against Sugden.  I’m not looking ahead of this fight, everything we’ve worked towards so far is on the line here and it means everything to me.” 

A delighted Hennessy said, “We welcome Shakan to the Hennessy Sports team and look forward to working with Jon as we take his career to the next level and beyond.  I’ve followed Shakan since he started his career and have always been impressed with him and how he handles himself inside and outside of the ring and it’s fantastic to now be guiding his career.  He’s a physical specimen blessed with great boxing skills, he can box, he can fight, he has a real aura and charisma that will crossover to the mainstream, but importantly his attitude and desire to go to the top and win a World title.  I really believe that he has something special and with my guidance and his exposure on free-to-air Channel 5, he can become a real star in the sport. The 175lb division is really heating up and Shakan can be in the heat of the action, but first and foremost he mustn’t overlook Chad who is a serious challenger for the British title and will be a big hurdle to get over first.”

London, UK (24 July 2020) Promoter Mick Hennessy oversees the long-awaited return of Championship Boxing to UK free-to-view TV screens exclusively LIVE on Channel 5 on Saturday 22nd August and has added a further title fight to the show.

The five-fight card, presented by Hennessy Sports in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum and Numan, will be staged behind-closed doors at a purpose built production studio and is headlined with the long-awaited battle for the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight title between Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden.

Hennessy is delighted to bolster the big fight-night with a sizzling Midlands derby that pits Birmingham’s Kaicee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker in a fiery clash for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight Title with plenty of pride and honour at stake.

All-action Benjamin (10-0-1, 2 KO’s), the former Midlands Area Champion, is in fine recent form having made two defences of the title and seen off three unbeaten fighters (Shaquille Day, Levi Ferguson and Alex Fearon) in his last four fights.

Rival Walker (7-0-1, 2 KO’s) will be looking to cause an upset and beat the favourite Benjamin to prove that he is the real deal. The former standout amateur took the unbeaten record of Nathan Bendon and then forced then unbeaten Ohio Kain Iremiren to a draw and is pumped up for the challenge against Benjamin.

In addition to the Pitters-Sugden and Benjamin-Walker showdowns, an action-packed card also features the highly anticipated return of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain (10-1-0, 4 KO’s) as he targets titles on his comeback, Birmingham super-welterweight talent and Love Island star Idris Virgo (5-0-1) and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr (3-0-1).

Hennessy said, “It’s fast building momentum towards an exciting and long-awaited return for British boxing on the free-to-air TV platform Channel 5 on August 22nd. We’ve got a fantastic main-event in place with the British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Shakan and Chad and that is now complimented with a Midlands Area title clash between Kaicee and Conah. Not only that, but we have the exciting return of cruiserweight star Isaac who’s on the road back towards challenging for titles, plus reality TV star Idris and young prospect Michael complete the card. This is a statement that our sport is finally back and where it belongs on the big-stage on free-to-air Channel 5 for everyone to watch without having to pay.”

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (1 July 2020) Hennessy Sports is thrilled to announce that big-time championship boxing will return live and on free-to-air television on Saturday 22nd August when fierce rivals Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden collide for the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight title on Channel 5.

In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Pitters v Sugden clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo; fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr and a further Area Championship title fight to be confirmed.

The event will be staged in a state of the art, arena sized and purpose built production studio, behind-closed-doors, with no public in attendance. In addition, strict medical protocols laid out by the BBBofC will be followed to ensure the health and safety of the boxers, trainers, staff, officials, medics and broadcast team working on the night.

Whilst it will be an unusual experience to not have the energy and atmosphere of fans’ at the event, the Channel 5 production team will use innovative ideas and techniques to fully enhance the presentation for the viewer.

Pitters and Sugden collide in a mouthwatering dust up that was originally scheduled for March 28 in Coventry, but had to be postponed one week prior to the event when the country went into lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

After three months of self-training in isolation at their homes and only recently beginning to train and spar in controlled conditions in their gyms after the British Boxing Board of Control eased restrictions, Pitters and Sugden are now powering on in their respective training camps to prepare for boxing’s big return on terrestrial TV.

Undefeated Pitters from Birmingham said, “This has been a long time coming and every day that’s gone by in lockdown I’ve been getting more and more hungry, determined and focused on beating Sugden and claiming the British title,”

“It was very frustrating when the show was cancelled just one week before, but I understood the bigger picture as the pandemic is a global crisis and the lives that had been lost in the UK alone was frightening and I commend the front line workers who kept working throughout,”

“I just had to be patient and keep training in the background and thanks to Mick and Channel 5 the big fight is now back on,”

“Whilst my loyal supporters can’t be there, the fight is live and free for everyone to watch on Channel 5, so tune in and watch me beat Sugden and become the new British champion.”

Newark battler Sugden said, “This was the news I had been waiting for for a long time and I just can’t wait now until August 22nd and to get in the ring and win that beautiful British title.”

“I’ve certainly missed my live sport on TV but now things are returning gradually with football and boxing and I’m thrilled that my fight will be broadcast live on Channel 5 and it’s free for anyone to watch,”

“This is going to be a great fight, I’m certainly not seeing this as an easy one. Pitters wants it bad and so do I. It’s down to who wants it more and who’s prepared to go that extra mile,”

“I’m gutted that my loyal fans won’t be there to see me lift the British title, but get the drinks and snacks in and switch on to Channel 5 and watch from the comfort of your own home.”

Promoter Mick Hennessy said, “It’s been extremely tough for everyone throughout the country these past few months, but key and frontline workers have kept us safe and going through these hard times and with the vast majority of the public adhering to the lockdown rules we’re now starting to come through, but there’s still a long way to go and we must be vigilant,”

“With live sport on TV starting to return after months off-air, I’m delighted to finally bring boxing back with a bang on free-to-air TV screens on Channel 5 and what a fight to return with between Shakan and Chad and the prestigious British title on the line,”

“I believe that it’s vital that sport and boxing reaches the biggest viewing audience possible and I’m delighted that with our broadcast partner Channel 5 we can deliver this fight live on terrestrial TV in the UK to an audience of millions and more importantly it’s absolutely free to watch.”

“It’s been very tough on Shakan and Chad who were ready to go a week before the first fight and then it had to be postponed following the lockdown. Since then they’ve had to maintain their discipline through training at home and keep positive despite the uncertainty of when the fight would be rescheduled, but through patience and perseverance it’s now on,”

“We have worked step-by-step with the BBBofC and followed the Government guidelines to ensure the safety of everyone involved with the event, but sadly, though, we are unable to allow fans into the venue at this present time,”

“Whilst it will be a strange experience not feeling the raw energy and passion of the crowd as Shakan and Chad engage in what I believe will be a thrilling fight, through technology and innovative production ideas from the team at Channel 5 we will deliver a special first class presentation that will go a long way to fill the void of fans not in the venue.”

This will be the first live championship boxing event of a busy schedule for Hennessy Sport on Channel 5 with more big title-fight shows to be announced in the coming weeks.

Download the press release in Word format CLICK HERE
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

London, UK (6 March 2020) British Light-Heavyweight title challenger Chad Sugden says he’ll break Shakan Pitters in half with body shots when they clash on Saturday 28th March at the Coventry Skydome, exclusively live across the UK on Channel 5.

The Newark fighter met with his 6’ 6” Birmingham rival for the first time at yesterday’s press conference at Coventry’s famous landmark The Belgrade Theatre, although they didn’t strictly meet ‘face-to-face’ with Pitters towering over the 6ft Sugden.

Not only will Sugden (11-1-1, 4 KO’s) have to deal with a six-inch height deficit in the fight, but he’ll also have to contend with Pitters’ staggering 85 inch reach – 10 inches more than Sugden.

However, Sugden’s not bothered with his physical disadvantages and will instead focus on his own game plan and has promised to smash Pitters’ body with a ferocious and relentless attack to his ribs from the first bell.

The 25-year-old says he’s faced even taller opponents than Pitters when he was on the kickboxing circuit and knows exactly how to deal with him.

“His physical advantages are plainly obvious and it would be stupid of me to try and box him,” Said Sugden.

“The only way to get to Pitters is to stick to him like glue and smash away at his body until it breaks to make him drop his hands and then I’ll nail him with the head shots. It’s like chopping down a mighty oak tree with an axe, it will take some time but that tree will eventually fall.”

“I’ve always been a good body puncher and have stopped a few that way in my fights. I’ve faced much taller men than Pitters in kick-boxing fights, especially those boys from the Eastern block, real beasts from the east, nearly 7ft tall and you have to get past the kicks and knees to get into range. I’ve overcome them and I’ll do the same and overcome Pitters,”

“Pitters is tall and lean and once I get inside his jab and start working away at his ribs he won’t be able to keep me off him. I’ll be all over him like a shark feeding on a whale carcass. I won’t give him a moment to catch his breath and once I cut off the oxygen to his lungs then it’s my fight,”

“Winning the British title means everything to me. It’s a dream to receive this shot and I’ll put everything I’ve got into this fight, nothing will be left to chance. This shot may not come around again so I’m making sure I leave the ring with that belt.”

A top quality undercard is headlined with the return of red-hot cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain from Brixton, South London, as he returns to action and back on his pursuit of a world title.

The card also features some great Midlands match ups that includes a fiery Coventry derby between welterweights Jordan Cooke and Michael Green over six-rounds; Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis takes on Walsall’s Shaun Cooper over six rounds at lightweight; Coventry’s River Wilson Bent clashes with Tamworth’s Lee Gunter in a four-round light-middleweight contest; Tamworth welterweight Tom Silcox in a four-round contest; Birmingham super-featherweight Lewis Coley in a four-round contest; Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermine in a four-round contest and Battersea light-heavyweight Mark Williams in a four-round contest.

Also on the card will be exciting middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr. from Sevenoaks, Kent, in his fifth professional bout in a six round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports and join the conversation at #PittersSugden #BritishTitle

London, UK (25 February 2020) Chad Sugden has received a shock dream shot at the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight title against Shakan Pitters on Saturday 28th March at the Coventry Skydome, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK, following the withdrawal of original challenger Craig Richards.

Newark warrior Sugden (11-1-1, 4 KO’s) was originally scheduled to feature on the undercard, but was training as if he was going to challenge for the 175-pound title just in case Pitters or Sugden withdrew from the fight and he had to step in.

That has now become a reality for Sugden after Richards was ruled out of the title fight due to suffering from a viral infection that has left him unable to train and Sugden steps up to fight the undefeated Pitters in the main event.

All-action Sugden, 25, caused a massive shock when he held the WBA Continental Champion and number 10 World ranked Richards to a draw last December at the York Hall where at just a week’s notice and coming in the underdog he fought the fight of his life to level with Richards and saw his stock rise considerably.

‘2-Slick’ Sugden is thrilled to be challenging for the prestigious Lonsdale belt in the first championship contest of his 13-fight career and now heads into a red-hot Midlands derby showdown against his Birmingham rival.

He said, “It’s a dream come true. From fighting Richards at one week’s notice and getting a draw and then being constantly in the gym training over Christmas and New Year looking for the next fight, to then getting a slot on the undercard of Pitters versus Richards and to now getting a shot at the British title is the stuff dreams are made of. I’m not getting carried away with it though, the reality is I’ve got to now train like never before and make this dream real and win the British title. I’ll go into the fight the underdog and I love that because I know I can cause a huge upset.”

Pitters (13-0-0, 4 KO’s) is not unnerved with the change of opponent from Richards to Sugden and will not let that detract his focus and determination to win the British title.

“I’m just getting on with the job in front of me and winning the British title. I don’t care who is in the ring on the night, they’re getting beat, simple. This is my destiny to become British Champion and nothing is going to derail me. The fight is still nearly five weeks away so there is plenty of time to readjust from Richards to Sugden. He thinks he’s seen chinks in my armour because of my height, but he’ll find out for real on the night what he’s up against.” Said Pitters.

Whilst disappointed, Richards has not lost his opportunity and will fight the winner out of Pitters and Sugden next and aims to be at ringside for the fight to see who emerges victorious on the night. He said, “After two weeks out of the gym with a flu virus my manager and trainer Peter Sims has made a decision that I objected to, but I understand it’s for my own health to pull me out of the fight against Shakan Pitters for the British Title on 28th March. However, due to my GP supplying the relevant medical paper work to the BBBofC, I’m still the mandatory challenger and will fight the winner of Pitters and Sugden in Coventry where I will hopefully be watching at ringside.”

Promoter Mick Hennessy added, “Sugden’s proved he is more than a worthy challenger for the British title after his tremendous performance against Richards and to hold a quality fighter like him to a draw at a week’s notice was a great achievement. We’re sorry to see Richards having to withdraw due to a viral condition, but at least he has consolation in the fact that he will get first crack at the winner for the British title. Between Pitters and Sugden, we have a real Midlands derby tear-up between a tall, skilled, box-puncher in Pitters and the rough, tough and relentless Sugden which will make for an intense battle with the prestigious British title on the line. With Richards waiting in the wings, it’s great to see a dearth of talent in the domestic 175 pound division who will square off against each other.”

Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with Ladbrokes, Channel 5, Infinitum and John Pegg, tickets are priced at Standard £40, Ringside £70 and Inner Ringside £100 are presently available through the boxers on the card as the event is almost sold out.
A top quality undercard is headlined with the return of red-hot cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain from Brixton, South London, as he returns to action and back on his pursuit of a world title. One of British boxing’s most exciting fighters, Birmingham’s Sam Eggington, the former British, Commonwealth, European and WBC International Silver Welterweight Champion, makes his long awaited return to the ring as he targets a World title fight this year.

The card also features some great Midlands match ups that includes a fiery Coventry derby between welterweights Jordan Cooke and Michael Green over six-rounds; Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis takes on Walsall’s Shaun Cooper over six rounds at lightweight; Coventry’s River Wilson Bent clashes with Tamworth’s Lee Gunter in a four-round light-middleweight contest; Tamworth welterweight Tom Silcox in a four-round contest; Birmingham super-featherweight Lewis Coley in a four-round contest and Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermine in a four-round contest.

Also on the card will be exciting middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr. from Sevenoaks, Kent, in his fifth professional bout in a six round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports and join the conversation at #PittersSugden

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London, UK (21 February 2020) Newark’s Chad Sugden believes he can beat either British Light-Heavyweight title contenders Shakan Pitters or Craig Richards and wants the chance to prove it.

Sugden (11-1-1, 4 KO’s) will feature on the undercard of Pitters-Richards on Saturday 28th March at the Coventry Skydome, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5, but has his sights firmly set on fighting the winner next.

The 25-year-old caused a massive shock when he held the more experienced Richards – the WBA Continental Champion and number 10 ranked in the World – to a draw back in December in their eight-rounder at the York Hall. Sugden took the fight at only one week’s notice, but he gave the betting favourite some shaky moments during the fight.

Despite the result, Sugden is happy to have risen to the challenge and announce himself on the domestic stage to prove he belongs in the mix with the top 175lb contenders.

Now he wants a shot at whoever emerges victorious out Pitters and Richards.

“I’ve kept myself in training since the fight over Christmas and New Year so I would be ready to fight whenever the call came and I’m thrilled to be fighting on the Coventry Skydome show,” Said Sugden.

“Whilst it was frustrating coming out with a draw when I thought and many people who watched it thought that I had beat Richards, I’m happy that my performance in the fight has elevated my profile and it has set me on a good level for this year and I now just need to keep building on it,”

“I know I can hold my own against the likes of Richards and I’d love the chance to do it again with him. With more than a week’s notice I would definitely turn the tables and beat him next time around. If he beats Pitter’s then let’s do it with the British title on the line. Everyone was raving about the last fight, imagine how big it would be next time around?”

“I’d be equally confident against Pitters who despite his unnatural height advantage, I believe would present disadvantages for him in other areas that I’d exploit. I’ve been watching him for a while and I’d love to go in and test myself against him. I just know I’d have the beating of him.”

“With the show live and free across the UK on Channel 5 this is another massive opportunity for me to showcase my skills and get my name out to an audience of millions and I can’t wait.”

A top quality undercard is headlined with the return of red-hot cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain from Brixton, South London, as he returns to action and back on his pursuit of a world title.

The card also features some great Midlands match ups that includes a fiery Coventry derby between welterweights Jordan Cooke and Michael Green over six-rounds; Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis takes on Walsall’s Shaun Cooper over six rounds at lightweight; Coventry’s River Wilson Bent clashes with Tamworth’s Lee Gunter in a four-round light-middleweight contest; Tamworth welterweight Tom Silcox in a four-round contest; Birmingham super-featherweight Lewis Coley in a four-round contest; Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermine in a four-round contest and Battersea light-heavyweight Mark Williams in a four-round contest.

Also on the card will be exciting middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr. from Sevenoaks, Kent, in his fifth professional bout in a six round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports and join the conversation at #PittersRichards

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