Blackburn boxer Dezzi looking to prove an English belt winner (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Blackburn boxer Dezzi looking to prove an English belt winner

8:50am Wednesday 13th January 2010 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(1)

DEZZI Higginson insists he can shock boxing’s pundits by bringing the English light welterweight title to Blackburn.

The 27-year-old faces the biggest fight of his life when he steps into the ring against Walsall’s Martin Gethin at Altrincham Leisure Centre on Friday night.

Higginson – who is part of the Ricky Hatton stable – previously landed the British Masters light welterweight crown back in December 2007.

But the avid Blackburn Rovers supporter acknowledges that Friday’s showdown with Gethin is the greatest test of his blossoming career to date.

Although considered underdog for the 10-round bout in Greater Manchester, Higginson believes he’s got the ability to stun his opponent.

“Gethin is the favourite according to the pundits and rankings. He’s ranked in the top 10 and I’m in the top 20,” said Higginson.

“He’s got a great record and been in great company throughout his career. He’s even won the English title before.

“But I’ve been the underdog a lot throughout my career and I’ve had some fantastic results.

“This opportunity is absolutely fantastic for me and I don’t want to come away with any regrets.”

Higginson admits the fight will prove a battle of contrasts, with Gethin’s all-action style clashing with the Blackburn boxer’s more tactical approach.

“He’s a very tough opponent. He’s aggresive and just keeps coming and coming, He’s got a massive heart,” added Higginson.

“I’m always on the move. I’m more in and out, and that’s got to be my gameplan. Fingers crossed, it will work on the night.”

Now in his fifth year as a professional, Dezzi, whose real first name is Greame, has seen his career take off after signing up with Hatton Promotions.

Last Autumn, he penned a 12-month contract with the company owned by the legendary Mancunian boxer and has quickly seen their influence rub off.

“Without a doubt, working with the Hattons has kickstarted my career,” said Higginson, who is trained by his father Barry at the Fit2XL Gym in Lower Darwen.

“Hatton Promotions is one of the biggest up and coming promotions in the country, possibly the world, and its great to be on their team.

“I’m grateful to (match-maker) Richard Poxen and the Hatton team for giving me the opportunity of an English title shot.”

Higginson’s bout is among several on the undercard of the British and Commonwealth cruiserweight title fight between Rob Norton and David Dolan, a fight that will be screened live by Sky Sports.

Cheered on by over 100 supporters in Altrincham, Higginson hopes to deliver them a special night.

“It’s great that I’ll have a lot of people coming to support me,” he said.

“I’ve been allocated 100 tickets and they’ve almost gone – so I’ll be asking for more!

“I’m very grateful to those that have spent their hard-earned cash to come and support me on Friday because times are hard at the moment, and we’ve just come out of Christmas.”