WE’VE waited 10 years for part two of this great boxing rivalry between Savannah Marshall and Claressa Shields.
Sadly, now we have to wait an extra five weeks with the undisputed world middleweight championship confrontation moved to Saturday, October 15.
On paper it doesn’t seem too big an ordeal, though for all the boxers and teams, not to mention the fans, it has been a harrowing experience.
’As a mark of respect following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the British Boxing Board of Control has made the decision to postpone Saturday’s event,’ wrote promoters BOXXER in a statement issued on Friday.
Once the Premier League and EFL postponed their fixtures for the weekend, it seemed almost inevitable that boxing would follow suit. Friday night’s shows had already been called off.
To many, the idea of thousands of people coming together at a Saturday sporting event, having a minute’s silence and belting out God Save the Queen would have been a wonderful and heartfelt tribute.
Punch-lines agrees. An historic, all-female boxing card at the 02 would have been a fitting send-off to an incredible woman.
And, given people would still be going out for a beer/ a meal as normal why should they be denied sport?
However, this is just a personal view, football and boxing’s decision looked as much about perception as anything.
There was probably a reluctance, given wall-to-wall TV coverage, to be seen having a good time during what is an emotional occasion for our nation.
You have to feel for the large army of Marshall fans coming down from Hartlepool and the North-East, many of whom had already set off for the capital. It’s an expensive ‘do’ in these difficult economic times.
But, most of all, you have to feel for all the boxers involved. Savannah looked in the shape of her life and exuded great confidence at Thursday’s press conference.
She was ready for her big moment, but she has been here before – her fight with Hannah Rankin for the vacant WBO world title was called off on the Wednesday before the show in Peterborough in October 2020 after an issue with coach Peter Fury’s Covid test.
Marshall had to wait until the eve of Bonfire night for her chance and boy did she bring the fireworks.
BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said: “This is an unprecedented moment in our history and our sincere thoughts are primarily with the Royal Family and the nation at this time.
“A provisional date for Saturday, 15th October at The O2 is being worked on by all parties to stage this unique and iconic night of celebration for women’s sport at a more appropriate time.”
Sky Sport’s boxing supremo Adam Smith said: “All of our thoughts at Sky Sports Boxing are with the Royal Family at this time.
“As much as we were all looking forward to witnessing this historical sporting spectacle this weekend, it is absolutely right to respectfully reschedule the show for October 15th.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins
