Making the second defence of her world title is only part of the excitement Savannah Marshall is feeling as the clock ticks towards October 16
That’s the night the WBO champion puts her belt on the line against Lolita Muzeya in the battle of the undefeated middleweights at the Utilita Arena.
With Hughie Fury topping the bill with his heavyweight showdown against Christian Hammer and Lewis Ritson looking to climb back up the world light-welterweight ladder it promises to be some show.
The second event of Sky Sports and Boxxer’s new association also features two former GB stars making their pro debuts, Mark Dickinson and Georgia O’Connor, plus three unbeaten North-East prospects, April Hunter, Steve Robinson and Michael Webster.
“I can’t wait,” Marshall told punch-lines. “To be part of a show like this is very exciting.
“It’s always great to box on the same events as Hughie like I’ve done before at Bolton, Manchester, Bulgaria and the 02.
“But I’m looking forward to Newcastle and fighting on a Lewis Ritson show again.
“Lewis is one of the most exciting fighters out there and he has amazing fans
“The night he fought Robbie Davies the crowd gave me great support so I’m looking forward to experiencing that again.”
It is remarkable to think that evening two years ago was the last time she performed in front of a crowd.
Marshall wasted no time in hammering Ashleigh Curry to defeat that night, stopping the American inside three rounds.
And the 30-year-old has made quick work of her two world title bouts since.
The Hartlepool star became the first British fighter, male or female, to follow World Championship gold in the amateurs by winning a world professional title inside the ring.
Savannah dominated her shot at the vacant WBO middleweight belt against Hannah Rankin at Wembley on Halloween 2020, stopping the brave Scot in the seventh round.
Click here for details on how to buy tickets for the show
Her first defence was even more clinical, taking out late substitute, Maria Lindberg, inside three rounds at the Copperbox Arena in April.
Both opponents were known quantities but this time it’s a little different.
We know Lolita’s record – it’s a perfect one of 16 straight victories, with eight early finishes.
The Zambian has done all her fighting in Africa, principally in her home city of Lusaka, and Marshall insists there is no way she’ll take her lightly.
“This is Lolita’s big chance to be a world champion, something that will change her life,” said the Peter Fury-trained boxer.
“She’s unbeaten, like me, she doesn’t know what it’s like to lose, so she’s going to hard to beat.
“I’m expecting a tough night.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jennifer Charlton
