02.03.07 – On 16th March English lightweight champion Scott Lawton will step between the ropes at the Norfolk Showground in Norwich for what will be the biggest fight of his career to date. Lawton, from Stoke-on-Trent, is scheduled to meet holder Jon Thaxton in a 12 round contest for the British lightweight title..
With a record of 20 wins 2 losses and 1 draw Lawton has earned his right to challenge for the top domestic honour but in Jonathan Thaxton he is facing a world ranked opponent. Thaxton currently boasts a record of 31 wins with 7 defeats, 16 of his successes coming within the distance. Furthermore, Thaxton has not lost since February 2002 when Eamonn Magee stopped him; Lawton on the other hand has only been a professional since September 2001.
Thaxton will start the contest as an overwhelming favourite particularly with the advantage of boxing in front of his home crowd. Lawton though has fought all but five of his professional bouts outside of the Potteries and succeeded in defeating Doncaster’s Stefy Bull on his home turf to lift the English title last June.
When asked to comment Stefy Bull said: “Scott will be going into this as a big underdog. I think that’s a big advantage for him, as he hasn’t got a thing to lose and a massive future to gain. Whatever happens he will still be walking out as the English champ and can still come back.”
“His range will definitely be the key; his arms are like javelins being thrown constantly in your face. He as great boxing ability and has a good fight brain. He’s getting in the ring with one of the toughest and strongest lightweights in Europe not just Britain though!”
As the final countdown begins Lawton’s remaining gym sessions are now numbered in single figures as the Impact coaching team make the final preparations.
Impact’s head coach Lindon Newbon reports: “So far everything has gone according to plan and we are pleased with the progress that Scott’s made.”
“Scott did have a bout of flu last week that prevented him training for a couple of days but he’s recovered well and is as fit as ever. We are all happy that he’s reaching his peak condition and are confident that he will be ready when the time comes. Whatever happens in the ring on the night I am in no doubt that Scott will give a good account of himself.”
The event, billed as “Showdowns@The Showground” also features a clash between Esham Pickering and Marc Callaghan for the vacant British super-bantamweight title. Tickets are available from Impact Boxing at www.impactboxing.com or by calling 0845 1567168 and from the event’s promoters Hennessy Sports on 01603 868606.