Power Puncher

23 September 2008 – by Cormac Campbell Boom! When Belfasts Martin Lindsay threw what was undoubtedly the sweetest left hook of his career against the much-touted Derry Matthews on September 20 he sent shockwaves through the domestic game. Behind on points and a big underdog from the get-go it seemed the Belfast mans gamble had not reaped dividends. However, from the middle of the scheduled 10 rounder the Mac Man had been landing an increasing number of meaty left hooks to the chops of the talented Liverpudlian. With just a minute left in the penultimate round Lindsay pounced, relieving Matthews of his senses and securing a British title tilt against champion Paul Appleby. Having previously notched only four stoppages from 12 successful contests the conclusive nature of the KO left many fans shocked but speaking to irish-boxing.com Lindsay said he knew he had power. I have a few knockouts on my card and I suppose it is there but you have to land it right, he said. Taking the fight was certainly a risk, but the University of Ulster graduate is adamant that the traditional route of tough opponents is the only way to be all that he can be. It was a step up for me. I went in to those last two rounds knowing I needed to do something because I was talking to the ref afterwards and he said I was a few rounds down. Were now working towards a title fight. Thats why I accepted the fight. There is no point in hanging about. I just wanted to go in and see how far I can go. He was ranked number two in the latest EBU rankings so I suppose that will put me up in the top ten anyway. I just dont know whereabouts. If Lindsays participation in the contest was viewed as an afterthought by the British media, future appearances will no doubt garner the attention and respect that wasnt apparent in Sheffield. I knew I was going in to the fight as an underdog and I knew a lot of commentators would be like that (pro Matthews). Im Irish going over to fight in England with English referees and commentators. I just expected it. It doesnt annoy me. Given the severity of the KO there will be little appetite for a rematch. Despite the fact that Matthews was well ahead on points two KO defeats in three fights will force the 25-year-old to get to the back of the queue in an intriguing domestic scene. When Lindsays title shot takes place remains to be seen, but the unbeaten 26-year-old will return to action in November on the undercard of David Hayes O2 Arena show in November. Im going on holidays now but Im on the O2 Arena show in November, he said. I dont know what they have planned for me but it probably wont be the title shot then. Theyll probably give me a six rounder. I just leave it up to my management and let them sort it out.