20.03.07 – Ian Napa, so impressive in his recent defeat to European bantamweight champion Simone Maludrottu, will return to flyweight in an attempt to win the title he yearns for. Napa 13-6 (0 KOs) went toe to toe with the Italian champion from the first bell at Dagenham’s Goresbrook Leisure Centre on 9 March and an upset looked possible before Maludrottu’s strength and height advantage told. Napa, 29, realises that a continuation of the dedication he has shown in recent months will give him the title he so desires and the former Southern Area flyweight title holder is enthusiastic about his return..
“I feel bantamweights are a bit to big for me,” said 5′ 1″ Napa. “I have thought about it and I believe I have the talent, and the grit to make it to the top of the flyweight division.
“I am looking forward to again being the biggest one in the ring and at this weight my physical strength will really tell.”
Napa’s trainer Brian Lawrence agrees, “The bantamweight fighters are too big for him. He fought so well against Maludrottu and undoubtedly he could win again at this weight but he would not be placing himself to the best advantage.
“It will be good to see him fight someone who does not have such a height and strength advantage,” Lawrence continued. “Ian is a slick fighter with real punching power and I feel very confident about this move.”
Napa is to start working to his new regime as soon as possible and with no setbacks could safely be fighting at flyweight within two months.
Promoter Frank Maloney is pleased this talented fighter has gone home and had a think about his career following the comments he made to Sky TV immediately after his recent defeat.
“Ian intimated on the TV that a return to flyweight may be too difficult,” said Maloney, “But he has realised just how much the future holds for him with a little sacrifice and he is very enthusiastic about his future.”
The victor of the Dale Robinson, Chris Edwards clash for the British Flyweight title in Altrincham on 13 April is sure to be high on Napa’s agenda.
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