Now Scott hunts for major domestic title

Melvin (right) tears into Sturton. Picture: Chris Dean/Boxxer

SCOTT “Terrier” Melvin is snapping at champions’ heels after shining on Saturday’s big, BBC backed Derby bill.

The talented lightweight had a little too much of everything for ambitious, unbeaten Harvey Sturton at the Valiant Live Arena.

Nottingham’s Sturton, awkward and strong, never stopped trying to bull Melvin out of his stride in the six rounder. Scott, showing a fine jab, was simply too sharp and possessed too much ring savvy, running out a wide 59-55 winner.

After 13 bouts (one draw), the search for a significant opportunity for Chelmsley Wood’s former Midlands champ is being considerably cranked up.

“We want a major title fight for him, either Commonwealth or British,” manager Jon Pegg said. “I think Scott can win a British and once you’ve won that anything can happen.”

Sturton, who tasted defeat for the first time in four contests, had his moments, particularly in the second.

His cause was hindered by a point deduction for infringements in the third and Melvin widened the gap between the pair with each round. The East Midlander was also gashed over the left eye.

Pegg said: “Soggy (Eastside gym top man Paul Counihan) thought Scott went for the knockout a little too much when he had the kid hurt. But, remember, it was all for us to lose and Scott did a good job against someone who was unbeaten and game. He was awkward and tricky.

“The slip left hook worked well for Scott in a decent fight.”

Melvin, aged 25, is possibly one of the most underrated talents in the Midlands whose four year career has been a little stop-start: he fought only once in 2023 and ’24.

Pegg added: “Scott’s had some issues he’s had to deal with and there have been pull-outs. (In terms of fights), he needs something to focus on.”

Fit and fully focused, Melvin is a dangerous proposition for any domestic lightweight.