Burton ready to top hometown bill by Ian McNeilly May 4th 2007

Darlington heavyweight Chris ‘Hightower' Burton tops the bill at his hometown Dolphin Centre this Sunday (May 6th). Trainer Neil Fannan had originally booked the venue with a voluntary defence in mind for local hero Isaac ‘Argie' Ward, who became the town's first ever professional champion when he won the Commonwealth super-bantamweight title in January. But, as usual in boxing, nothing goes smoothly and Ward is out with an injured left elbow which requires surgery. In fairness to Fannan, it might have been easier to scrap the bill and many others might have done so, but the former Hartlepool fighter goes ahead and some of his novice pros will be grateful of the chance to show their skills. Burton is an exciting heavyweight prospect and his boxing-starved townspeople should get down to the venue and support him – tickets are available on the door so no excuses there! 6'5” Burton (7-0), who takes on Tanzanian visitor Awadh Tamimu, says the sparring sessions he's been having with the resurgent Michael Sprott have done him the world of good. “It can be hard getting sparring sometimes but I'm lucky enough to be in with one of the best in Michael Sprott,” the gentle giant told BBN. “Your mistakes are exposed so you can learn from them and Michael is always prepared to give me advice, which is great.” By the way, doorman Chris told everyone who was within listening distance that Sprott would beat Audley Harrison – but not many listened to him. “I was telling everyone that Michael would win but not many believed me. A few lads had a few quid on so that's good. He'll beat Skelton too – he's better and fitter than he's ever been.” Regarding his own task this weekend, Burton says he's looking forward to topping the bill for the first time. “I hope people in the town come down and get behind me – it will be a good afternoon's boxing with some good local lads on the bill. “I feel good. This Tamimu is a bit of a mystery man to me but has a good record on paper (9-1-0). I feel confident that I can get a win and am looking forward to it.” Other fighters on the bill include Hartlepool middleweight Craig Denton looking for win two from two as a pro and debutants James McElvaney at super-featherweight (Middlesbrough), Davey Watson at lightweight (Wheatley Hill) and Sedgefield light-welterweight Mark Dawes. Tickets available on the door of the Dolphin Centre, located in Darlington's town centre, or from 07891 101399.

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