By Scott Gilfoid: Former WBO cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli (34-5, 27 KO’s) is excited about trying to capture the British cruiserweight title off of inexperienced champion Shane McPhilbin (8-2, 5 KO’s) on March 23rd at the Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, United Kingdom. The 31-year-old Maccarinelli wants the strap despite it being a domestic level belt compared to the World Boxing Organization title like he had before in the past.

Maccarinelli has been stopped in four out of his last 10 fights and it’s been a while since he beat a world class opponent. McPhilin isn’t world class, and it’s likely going to be an easy fight for Maccarinelli unless his vulnerable chin betrays him once again.

Maccarinelli recently moved down to light heavyweight to try and pick up an easy strap off of WBO light heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly. However, he’s not had any luck in getting a fight with Cleverly unfortunately which is why he’s forced to take the fight against the inexperienced McPhilbin as a stay busy fight.

Maccarinelli said “The main reason I took the fight against McPhilbin is because I want the British title.”

It’s sad that Maccarinelli wants to go backwards with his career by going after straps on the domestic level. I mean, I like his enthusiasm about it but it’s kind of sad to see the guy going backwards with his career. There wouldn’t be any problem if Cleverly would fight him but he’s been slow in showing any interest in mixing it up with the hard hitting Maccarinelli and I don’t expect that to change for another two to three years. I can’t see Cleverly holding onto his title that long unless he’s carefully steered away from facing his mandatory challengers. Maccarinelli looks to be getting waited out until he ages enough to where he’s no longer as much of a threat to KO Cleverly.