Derry Matthews gets one over Anthony Crolla again

By Gavin Duthie - 01/15/2015 - Comments

mathews3323By Gav Duthie: One mans misery is another mans fortune as the old saying goes. I was devastated for Anthony ‘Million Dollar’ Crolla on missing out on his world title shot against skilful Cuban Richar Abril 19-3-1 (8) this month when he fractured his skull trying to apprehend burglars next to his home. Crolla’s former Liverpudlian rival Derry Matthews 36-9-2 (19) has secured the fight against Abril instead in Liverpool on 6 March. 

Derry Matthews deserving

If Crolla deserves this opportunity then why not Derry. He already boasts a knockout victory over Crolla and was unlucky to draw in the rematch. Derry’s decision to sign with Queensbury promotions (Frank Warren) scuppered any chance of a trilogy fight.

Matthews was recently defeated in his quest for the European title against Stephen Ormond a few fights ago so Warren has worked wonders in securing this shot for the WBA title. Matthews is one of those fighters that we all know isn’t world class but you can’t begrudge him this shot because he gives 100% every time he steps into the ring. It’s a proper Rocky Balboa story and best of luck to him. 

Finances

Richar Abril is probably attracted to the fight or the money he can make in the UK. Matthews is very popular in Liverpool and this card including Paul Butler’s title shot will no doubt sell out. If Abril beats Matthews as expected he could build up his name in the UK and their are lots of Brits he could defend against over the next few years like Crolla, Kevin Mitchell and Ricky Burns. 

I wish Derry all the best but I think this shot is a bridge to far. 



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