Sutcliffe’s May opponent pulls out to challenge for European title
PHILIP Sutcliffe Jr’s search for the kind of opponent that will enable him to make a significant statement continues after Alexandre Lepelley pulled of an agreed clash.
The 25 year old was due to fight 17-3-1 French man at the Red Cow on May1, but despite signing a contract Lepelley pulled out and will challenge Michelle Di Rocco for the European lightweight title later in the month.
Having gone the distance with Ricky Burns and a massed an impressive record the 32 year old was the kind of test former Senior champion Suticliffe craved.
Sutcliffe’s manager Pat Mwgee and the BUI have lodged a protest with the EBU, argueing the French fighter had a contract to fight Sutcliffe before electing to change opponent.
Team Sutcilffe are actively searching for a replacement foe for the Crumlin graduate and hope to secure a ranked opponent for the May 1 clash.
Most wouldn’t begrudge Lepelley the chance to challenge for the European title, but Sutcliffe has been finding it hard to secure opponents.
The light welterweight prospect, who has European title ambitions, has stopped six of his pro foes and boasts an impressive amateur background. He has recently agreed to last minute fights with known fighters on big shows, only for the fighters to elect against trading leather with him.
