By James Slater: Two more additions have been made to the fast approaching and potentially exciting “Prizefighter: The International Heavyweights” tournament of May 7th. The latest name to be confirmed for the London show is huge American southpaw Tye Fields. Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed the 6’8” giant with the 45-3(41) record will take part on May 7th, and French heavyweight Gregory Tony, 14-1(12) is also confirmed by Boxrec.
There is also a strong possibility former WBC cruiserweight king Juan Carlos Gomez may also fight in the tourney. Along with confirmed names Kevin Johnson, Michael Sprott, Fres Oquendo, Mike Perez and Konstantin Airich, the addition of Fields, Tony and maybe Gomez should make for a great night of three-rounders.
“Big Sky,” by far the tallest, heaviest of the eight fighters, may be coming off that crushing KO loss to fellow giant Michael Grant, but this format may well suit him perfectly. Dangerous early, the 36-year-old will make an interesting rival for whoever he gets matched with. A Fields-Kevin Johnson fight would be most interesting if it happens. Fields, despite his limitations, can bang. The May 7th tournament will be far from dull, of that I am convinced.
If Gomez, another southpaw, is added as well, the line up will be the strongest in the history of the tournament. Promoter Hearn, though, did say he would get a former world heavyweight champion on board. At least in Gomez, we will get to see a former “world” cruiserweight champion taking part. Gomez hasn’t been confirmed yet, though, so maybe Hearn has another surprise name up his sleeve.
For my money, judging by the styles of the fighters, Fields, Oquendo and the unbeaten Cuban, Perez have to be looked at as the favourites to win. But then, a betting favourite has rarely won the eight-man, three-round distance tournament. It really is a case of whoever lands first, especially at heavyweight, and none of the eight fighters taking part can be dismissed.
May 7th promises to be some great night in general for fight fans who have access to Sky Sports. The long night of quality boxing starts with the most intriguing-looking “Prizefighter” show yet, and will end with the great Manny Pacquiao defending against “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Sky have to be commended for showing both the London show and the Las Vegas show live.