Wardy is back, but it won’t be for the British super-bantamweight title.
Martin Ward has recovered from a hand injury and will box over six rounds on the Pat Barrett-promoted Battle on the Tyne show at the Lancastrian Suite in Dunston on November 16.
It will provide a happy ending to a frustrating year for the Hartlepool-trained skilful southpaw.
The 30-year-old had been lined up to fight old Ward foe James ‘Jazza’ Dickens in July for the British super-bantamweight title his brother, Tommy, had vacated.
That show at Houghton had the makings of a bit of history with Tommy facing Spanish champ Alvaro Rodriguez for the IBF European crown and Martin attempting to get his hands on the Lonsdale Belt against Jazza.
But an injury to his right hand ruled him out and while Ward v Dickens was kept on the table by the British Boxing Board of Control, it has now been removed.
The Dave Garside and Neil Fannan boxer says a combination of physical and financial issues have prompt a change in tack with featherweight the new direction he is looking to.
“I’m probably looking at featherweight at the moment, there are opportunities there,” said the NE Security-sponsored talent.
“The older I get the harder it’s becoming to get down to 122lbs for super-bantamweight.
“It’s hard at the best of times, but as you get older it dos get even tougher.
“Don’t get me wrong, if Eddie Hearn offered 15 grand for me to fight Jazza for the British super-bantamweight title I’d fight him tomorrow, if you see what I mean
“But for what this Jazza fight was paying I could probably do a six-rounder at featherweight.
“I’ve a wife and four little girls to work for and there are easier fights out there for better money.
“I’d love the chance to box for that Lord Lonsdale Belt again but the Dickens bout did not add up.
“I’m looking forward to getting back in there on November 16th and training has I’ve had a good spar with John Green this week.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins/ East Durham Life
