Tommy Ward will have international opposition when he warms up for his British title re-match with James ‘Jazza’ Dickens.
The reigning champion faces Barcelona-based Nicaraguan, Lesther Cantillano, in Houghton this Saturday.
Ward v Dickens 2 is set to go ahead in May after Tommy’s promoter, Frank Warren, won the purse bids for the contest.
Coach Neil Fannan, as well as Ward himself, told punch-lines last month that a gap of November to May was too long a stretch between fights.
And the trainer says Saturday’s six-round match at the Rainton Meadows Arena is essential for the 23-year-old.
“Cantillano is a durable fighter and that’s what we want,” said Fannan.
“Joe Cordina has won every fight bar one inside the distance, not even he could stop Lesther.
“This will be a good work-out for Tommy.
“He lives the life, lives for boxing but he can’t just train all the time, we need to keep him interested.
“Tommy will box Cantillano, we’ll give him a few days off and get him back in the gym counting down to Jazza.
“We’re still awaiting a date so this fight is at a perfect time.”
The Dave Garside-managed talent is chasing his 23rd consecutive win this weekend.
His British title rival last weekend clocked up his 23rd victory, and his eighth stoppage, when he halted Barnie Arguelles in round five of six at Manchester.
“Jazza’s had a warm up so it makes sense we do,” added Fannan. “I didn’t go, but I’ve heard about it and seen a little bit on the internet.
“The lad looked useful so that was a good win for Jazza.
“But we know everything there is to know about Jazza. For me he’s the best super-bantamweight in Europe, aside from Tommy.
“It will be another great fight bit we have Saturday to focus on first, we can’t take our eye off the ball.”
Ward v Cantillano is part of an eight-bout Phil Jeffries-promoted event on Saturday evening, with Thornley’s undefeated Darren Surtees also going over six rounds too.
Redcar’s Hill brothers, Tom and Joe, are in action, along with unbeaten Thornaby flyweight, Joe Maphosa, plus Geordie trio, James Conlon, Kris Pilkington and Mark Taylor.
Words: Roy Kelly
