Sam Webb Snubs Euro Title For Lonsdale Belt

SAM WEBB turned down a chance to gate crash the world rankings because of his lifelong ambition to win a Lonsdale belt outright.

The British light-middleweight champion needs two more notches to win his treasured belt for keeps.

Webb (17-1) will be on the brink of that provided he comes through his second defence on Friday May 13 at Medway Park Leisure Centre, Gillingham against Manchester’s Prince Arron (20-3-1).

Webb, 29, won the title when he shocked Anthony Small last year and made a successful defence knocking out Martin Concepcion in 11 rounds back in October.

Chislehurst’s Webb was offered a European title fight against world ranked Lukas Konecny, but refused because winning the Lonsdale belt is a dream.

Webb said: “Ever since I was a kid I have had visions of owning a Lonsdale belt and if I beat Arron I will almost be there.

“The European title is tempting because winning it would get me a world ranking, but right now the British crown is my world title.

“Once I have that belt for keeps I will move on.”

Promoter Frank Maloney said: “It is fantastic that Sam is a fighter who wants to bring credibility to the British crown.

“The Lonsdale belt is of the greatest belts in boxing history and the envy of the world, but it could be said that some fighters use it as a stepping stone and nothing more.”

In the chief support Blackpool’s Brian Rose (16-1-1) makes the first defence of his English light-middleweight crown against Swanley’s unbeaten Martin Welsh (9-0).

A special attraction features Chatham heavyweight sensation Tom Dallas (14-0) whose opponent will be named later this week.

Tickets for the fantastic night of action are available at £30 and £65 ringside from www.frankmaloney.com and 0871 226 1508