Live professional boxing is finally back on BBC primetime TV. On Saturday, October 25, Frazer Clarke and Jeamie TKV will battle for the British Heavyweight Title at the Vaillant Live Arena in Derby. It’s the first fight night in the new BBC Sport–BOXXER deal, streaming free on BBC Two (8–10 pm) and with the full undercard on BBC iPlayer.
The Lonsdale Belt isn’t some throwaway trinket. It’s the same prize Henry Cooper, Lennox Lewis, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua once fought for. Now Frazer Clarke — Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medallist — and Tottenham’s Jeamie TKV are stepping up for their crack at British heavyweight glory.
BBC Throws Heavyweights Back Into the Living Room
Clarke knows the belt well. He came within touching distance back in March 2024 when he fought Fabio Wardley to a bloody draw at The O2 — British, Commonwealth and WBO European titles all on the line that night. He left frustrated but alive in the mix.
TKV’s road’s been messy too. His last British Title attempt against David Adeleye ended in a referee decision that left plenty shaking their heads. He’d been ahead, cruising, until one whistle flipped the script. Now he’s coming back looking to settle scores and nick that belt clean.
Frazer Promises Knockout, Jeamie Promises War
Frazer Clarke:
“It’s amazing to headline on the BBC. So many eyes, so much on the line. I’m seasoned now. I’ve travelled, taken my lumps, learned from it all. Jeamie won’t hear the final bell. I’m going in to win and make a statement — straight through him.”
Jeamie TKV:
“I’ve been slept on before — mistake. After the last fight’s controversy, I’m hungrier than ever. This isn’t going the distance, 100%. We’re going to war. He won’t handle it.”
BBC Sport boss Alex Kay-Jelski calls it “a historic moment” and promises to reconnect the sport with a new generation. BOXXER’s Ben Shalom says it’s “impossible to call,” with two warriors and the nation watching free.
MY Take
This is clever from BOXXER and the Beeb. Finally, free boxing on big TV again. No PPV moaning, no subscription hurdle — just heavyweights throwing leather where your nan can flick over after Strictly. Clarke’s the favourite and looks the more polished pro now, but let’s not pretend he’s bulletproof. He’s been tested, he’s been dragged. TKV’s got awkward tools, can switch the tempo, and he’s bitter about that Adeleye mess.
If Clarke’s learned from the Wardley war, he probably stops TKV late. But if he’s flat or cautious? TKV could steal it. Either way, good move for the sport. Boxing’s been hiding behind paywalls too long — let’s see if the casuals bite when it’s back on BBC Two on a Saturday night.