Last night we got a further glimpse at highly talented British and Commonwealth light
heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly (18-0-0) in the main event of Sky Sports Friday
Fight Night against Courtney Fry (13-3-0).
The Welshman Cleverly boosted his chance at a shot for the European title with a TKO victory over Fry in the 8th, subsequently his fifth knockout in consecutive bouts.
From the off Cleverly looked comfortable snapping jabs constantly in the face of Fry then moving to the body. Fry was certainly troubled in the first couple of rounds, his best shot he used was his uppercut as he managed to get on the inside which landed flush on the chin of Cleverly more than he would have liked.
Going into the 5th Cleverly was up on all cards undoubtedly. Fry managed to land a left hook in the first few seconds of the fifth, which Cleverly laughed off with shades of Joe Calzaghe rubbing off on him who he has sparred many times. After having his worst round of the fight Cleverly managed to pick up the pace again, using his quick hands firmly to his advantage over the Sydney Olympian.
In the 8th Cleverly managed to put his challenger away, counter punching Fry’s jab he managed to land a straight, who sent Fry backing up onto the ropes. Similar to his previous fight against Danny McIntosh he managed to pick his hooks correctly as he looked controlled whilst finishing Fry off.
After the fight Warren said they are looking for him to fight on the December 5th
card against co-challenger Antonio Brancalion (32-7-2). Brancalion lost in his first
bid for the title in June in a first round knockout against Jurgen Braehmer (34-2-0)
the interim WBO light heavyweight holder.
Cleverly has certainly earned his shot for the European light heavyweight belt as he has blown away all domestic competition in front of him, with only being 22 years of age Cleverly looks like he has a bright career ahead of him with time on his hand.
The undercard also featured Beijing Olympian Billy Joe Saunders (4-0-0) versus Alex Spitko (6-16-0). Billy Joe was effective over four rounds winning his first points decision.
In the post interview Saunders explained how he “was only at 50%”. An important learning experience for Saunders who discovered he won’t be able to blow every opponent away.
Derek Chisora (11-0-0) made his comeback from his 4 month ban for biting the ear of Paul Butlin and cruised to a TKO victory in the third against Zurab Noniashvili, after putting him down earlier in the round.
Vinny Mitchell (11-0-0) came past Johnny Greaves (2-38-0). The Walsh brothers Liam (6-0-0), Michael (6-0-0) and Ryan (8-0-0) were all successful in their bouts, all picking up TKO victories and John Wayne Hibbert outpointed Kevin McCauley (4-11-1).
By DAN COTTER
