Haughian hoping to out hit ‘Hitter’ Witter

August 19 Jonny Stapleton

Stephen Haughian believes Junior Witter’s time has come and gone and is looking to steal the spot light from the former world champion when the pair meet on September 17.

After his Celtic Title defeat to Kevin McIntyre, Haughian slipped down the domestic pecking order, but is confident 37 year old Witter will provide him passage back into title contention.

The Lurgan welterweight claims a win over the big name on the under card of Tyson Fury’s Belfast bow will ensure him a big fight with British champion Lee Purdy.

“It was decided I’m at the stage of my career whereby I need to fight a name in order to further my career.  With Tyson Fury fighting in Kings Hall on a Mick Hennessy show and Hennessy having connections with Witter this fight became a possibility,” an excited Haughian told www.irish-boxing.com.

“I think a win over Witter would have a massive impact and if I don’t get a shot at a title after it, there has to be something wrong. Beating Witter will hopefully set me up for a British title showdown with Lee Purdy.”

The Hitter Witter, who is nearly as renowned for claiming he could assassin the Hitman Hatton as he is for his world title exploits, is a quality operator and big name despite his advancing years.

The former WBC world, European, British and Commonwealth Light-Welterweight champion’s fight virtues are not lost on the Irish champion, but Haughian is confident he can hit a home run against the Witter.

Haughian is adamant he is going to seize chance to rejuvenate his career.

“I wouldn’t be getting into the ring if I didn’t think I could beat him. I feel fitter and stronger than ever. My whole career has been about bidding my time until I was ready for a fight like this and here it is. He is a good fighter, champion and show man, but its my time now. My time has come,” Haughian added before stressing he is more motivated for this fight than any other in his career.

“I am motivated more than ever, as I know I have to raise my game and be in the best possible shape in order to get the result I want. I don’t see him as a former world champion, as he is still in great shape himself physically and he showed that in Prizefighter. If Colin Lynes had of got the decision he should have got against El Macchi, I would have fancied Witter to win it. This chance might not have come about if he did though.”

 

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