McDonnell v Bracco Fridays European title fight preview

Jamie McDonnell

Jamie McDonnell defends his European Bantamweight title on Friday Night at the Doncaster Dome, making his first defence since upsetting Frenchman Jerome Arnould (22-3-1) in his own backyard in March.

McDonnell 24, has also the won British and Commonwealth Title in what has been a “Cinderella Man” year for the Yorkshireman, after he beat Ian “Dappa” Napa by split decision in January.

Napa’s January fight with McDonnell was lined up as a routine defence for “Dappa” before a crack at Arnould for the vacant European Title, McDonnell shocked Napa and won a controversial split decision to set himself up for a shot at the European Title.

McDonnell then travelled to France for the Arnould fight and boxed a smart and disciplined pressure fight against the Frenchman.

In the 10th round Jamie took his chance, pinning Arnould up against the ropes until a huge left hand put the former WBA Title challenger on the canvas, he was up at the count of eight but another sickening blow put him down and his corner stepped in.

That was the Doncaster fighters third major title in two months and has put him on the verge of a World Title shot.

Standing in his way is 30 year-old Italian Rodrigo Bracco (11-2-0), the current Italian Bantamweight Champion who is totally untested at this level.

This will be a massive step-up for Bracco, who won the Italian strap in his last fight, knocking out Pio Antonio Nettuno in the 10th round, setting up his date with McDonnell.

For Jamie McDonnell, a shot at Mexican WBC and WBO champion Fernando Montiel, WBA king Anselmo Moreno or Colombian IBF Champ Yonnhy Perez is well and truly on the cards for the British, European and Commonwealth 8 stone 4lb title holder, if he can overcome Bracco.

Curtis Woodhouse

Curtis-woodhouse swapping balls for gloves

Also, Bolton’s unbeaten Rick Godding takes on former English Light-Welterweight Champ and Commonwealth challenger Scott Hayward.

A match between to winners of the two fights could be in the offing.

Jamie McDonnell v Rodrigo Bracco is live on Sky Sports HD2 tomorrow night at 10pm.

By Phil D Jay reporting for British Boxers