In 2016 we would like to see...

britishboxingblog
Jan 4, 2016
3 min read

As we enter 2016, we have been blessed with the upcoming Super-Bantamweight world title clash between long-time rivals Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg. This is British Boxing Blog’s wish list for the next 12 months.

Carl Frampton vs Scott Quigg – Already announced and seemingly set in stone. Please let this happen!

Likelihood of happening: Nailed on (surely)

Tyson Fury vs David Haye – Provided that both come through their respective bouts, the rematch against Klitschko and the “Hayemaker”’s comeback against Aussie Mark de Mori, this one would be quite the spectacle. Twice postponed, plenty of needle between the pair, and the two best heavyweights in Britain battling it out; what’s not to like? A lot has to happen before then of course. Not only do both need to be successful in their arranged contests but lots of differences must be settled before this can be organised.

Likelihood of happening: Don’t hold your breath

Anthony Crolla vs Terry Flannagan / Derry Mathews – One boxing match that seems to make perfect sense on paper with very little chance of happening. Once again, the much maligned “boxing politics” appears to intervene to deny the fans a geuine 50/50 domestic world title scrap. Either the undefeated Flannagan or the experienced Scowser would make an intriguing matchup for “Million Dollar” Crolla. If “Turbo” successfully defends his title you have the classic city divide angle. The Red and Blue halves of Manchester face off again in a genuine world title unification. Mathews, however, cannot be counted out as Crolla knows only too well. A future contest would mark an unlikely trilogy between the duo (a draw and a win for Mathews) and would also be an easy sell. Both options provide a fascinating backdrop and a finely poised boxing match.

Likelihood of happening: Warren and Hearn need to cooperate…

Kell Brook vs Amir Khan – Yet another that appears to make sense to everyone apart from those involved in making it happen. There have been so many contradictory statements from both parties for several years that any “developments” must be taken with a pinch of salt. Brook needs to step up his competition (insert comment about this being relevant for the duration of his time with Matchroom) and Khan definitely represents that. Khan needs to fight a relevant opponent for arguably the first time since Danny Garcia. They can both benefit from each other, in terms of reputation, as well as finance. If this doesn’t get made, the options for both are somewhat limited unless they look towards the likes of Keith Thurman or Garcia.

Likelihood of happening: Who knows?

Rocky Fielding vs Paul Smith – Following on from younger brother Callum’s demolition of Fielding, Paul would make a fascinating comeback opponent for Rocky. There has been history between the two since Paul was British champion, and the verbal sparring between both camps were amusing and Round 2 of Gallagher – Harrison would no doubt be entertaining. Unfortunately Smith will no doubt believe he has bigger fish to fry and a mooted match against Martin Murray (who is also trained by Oliver Harrison) is a bigger opportunity for the eldest Smith brother and would also provide fans with a fun domestic scrap.

Likelihood of happening: Not much hope for Fielding but Murray vs Smith could well be on the cards

Callum Smith vs George Groves - Given his recent blowout of the aforementioned Rocky Fielding, Callum Smith is pushing for world honours in 2016. One potential opponent seemingly heading in the opposite direction is "The Saint" George Groves. Eddie Hearn has spoken of his desire to make this one and it makes a great deal of sense. Both have comfortable points victories over durable Frenchman Christophe Rebrasse and the amicable business relationship between Matchroom and Sauerland means this one could quite easily be made. Groves has his comeback at the Copperbox this month and providing he comes through that impressively he will be back in the mix at 168 pounds. His recent change in trainer to Shane McGuigan will probably allow Groves a little more time before being thrown in at the deepend. Hearn has shown in the past, and present, that he does not rush his prospects unecessarily so this may be more likely towards the end of the year.