Injury scuppers Jess’ Cannock title battle
Jess Barry at Sunday’s press conference. Picture: Aidan Hewitt
COVENTRY Banshee Jess Barry has been forced to withdraw from next month’s title fight.
An eye injury has scuppered the English champ’s clash with Stevi Levy on the huge September 13 Chase Leisure Centre, Cannock, show. The pair were to have fought for an international belt at super-bantam.
The injury has healed, but curtailed sparring for the 10-rounder.
“I’m gutted,” 31-year-old Barry said. “I’d done everything right in training, but in the end the decision was made for me. Hopefully, the fight will take place in November.”
The decision was made after Barry attended last Sunday’s press conference to officially unveil the show.
I understand Levy, from Kings Lynn, will still fight on the Cannock bill. The proposed opponent for the non-title eight rounder is veteran Gemma Ruegg from Bournemouth.
On social media, Barry told fans: “Unfortunately guys, my title fight will be postponed till later in the year due to an injury to my eye. Absolutely devastated about this, as you can all imagine. I’m absolutely desperate to get back out there.”
Her withdrawal is a blow for promoter Scott Murray, but the card’s still brimming with title action – and topped by British, European and world champ Sam Eggington. English super-bantam boss Nyall Berry also boxes.
An opponent is yet to be named for Stourbridge light-middle Sam, but promoter Scott said an announcement is expected next week.
In Midlands title action, Nuneaton’s Minaaz Gurung will face Joe Underwood Hughes for the super-lightweight belt. Cannock’s Ollie Cooper puts his super-middleweight title on the line against Tom Ramsden from Grimsby.
If a suitable opponent can be found, Leicester’s Tyler Rivers will fight for the vacant welter area title.
American KO specialist Craig Parker – a cruiser who has won all 20 contests inside distance – makes his debut on the 10 bout card.
Finding an opponent for Parker has, not surprisingly, proved difficult.
“We’ve had a lot of people say no,” Scott told Sunday’s press conference. “We are putting the feelers out. We want a tough guy, we want rounds.
“If everything goes to plan, next year he’ll be fighting for a world title. I’d put him up against any British opponent at the moment.”