Askin confident after brilliant sparring with Bellew

The pair collide for Askin’s English cruiserweight title at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Saturday March 29 and the champion says rounds shared in training with Liverpool’s Tony Bellew have increased his confidence immensely.

Bellew has only just moved up to the 14st 4lbs weight class, but is a recognised world class operator – something he proved at the weekend when he blasted out the highly-rated Russian Valery Brudov.

“It was brilliant sparring. The things it’s taught me are amazing and it’s given me more confidence in the ring as well,” Matty, 16-2 (9 KOs), said.

“He was talking to me between round and telling about things I should working on. It was really good to get in with a world class fighter and learn.”

Askin, who has also completed some rounds with former foe Neil Dawson in the past few weeks, is expecting to have a huge crowd behind him on fight night and feels they will spur him onto another stunning victory.

“Tickets have been phenomenal and the support I’m getting is unreal so I’ve got to get out there and put on an absolute masterclass,” he said.

“It’s the first time I’ve headlined at the Winter Gardens and I can’t wait to get in there and keep my belt.”

Next Saturday’s bill includes a full undercard, featuring Adam Little, Rick Skelton, Daniel Watson, James Metcalf, Qasim Niaz, Dempsey Fury, Adam Machaj, Ian Halsall, Ashley Peyton, Louis Cuddy, Mick Hall, Craig Boardman and former European and Commonwealth champion Rendall “Two Tone” Munroe.

Tickets are priced at £30 (General Admission) and £60 (Ringside). They can be purchased from 07885 978597 and 01253 625252 or online at www.VIPBE.co.uk

Our Recent Interview with Matty Askin