CONGRATULATIONS to Carl Froch on unifying the IBF and WBA world super-middleweight belts at London’s O2 last week.
After a war surpassing even their initial classic in Denmark three years ago, ‘The Cobra’ was at his venomous best and deservedly had his hand raised after 12 pulsating rounds.
It was a high-energy, fiercely competitive affair — and is sure to be a contender for Fight of the Year.
Having avenged Kessler, there has been a clamour to pitch Froch in another rematch against America’s Andre Ward, the only remaining opponent he has failed to conquer in his 33-fight career.
The unbeaten Californian effectively toyed with Froch in the final of Showtime’s Super Six tournament over in Atlantic City 18 months ago.
But Froch has rebounded with three impressive wins, notably scalping reigning world champions Lucian Bute and Kessler, and there is growing belief that he could level the score if he fought Ward in the UK.
Home advantage is crucial to success and even more so in the super fights.
But it is my opinion that Ward — a class above any other 12-stoner — would repeat his victory, regardless of which side of The Pond they fight.
However, in his current rich vein of form, Froch has earned the right to address his one remaining blemish and the worst result is he would receive his biggest payday.
But you get the feeling the way his camp are talking about Ward they will take a different route, probably Kessler again!
It grates with me when people accuse me of giving Carl an unfair ride. I’m a huge boxing fan who appreciates good fighters and Froch is one.
I am also a patriot who enjoys watching British fighters flourish at world level. It brings a buzz to the industry, allowing all to benefit.
Froch’s win on Saturday puts him alongside Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank and Steve Collins — the Holy Trinity of world champions, who ignited the 168lb division in the 1990s.
Froch, with his power, tenacity and granite chin, would have been a match for them. But he would not have beaten Joe Calzaghe.
Unlike Froch, Calzaghe never lost in his 46 fights because he had a diverse skill-set to combat whatever the opposition brought to the ring.
Calzaghe saw off nine world champions and a younger and more dangerous version of Kessler.
Only Collins knows whether he vacated his world title and retired rather than meet Calzaghe, while Eubank left the ring after their 1997 clash muttering that he now knew “why that wily old fox Collins didn’t face Joe”.
Twice I offered Froch the Calzaghe fight but both times he stalled. He knew Calzaghe was as tough as him, yet far quicker and more skilled.
Some say that, because of his thirst for war and the ease with which he can be hit, Froch might be considered a more entertaining fighter than Calzaghe.
But better? Nah.
BoxNation Ryding high
IT has been another productive fortnight for BoxNation. Last week, Queensberry Promotions saw off Matchroom to secure the winning purse bid for the eagerly anticipated British middleweight showdown between unbeaten rivals Billy Joe Saunders and John Ryder.
This week, I am delighted to welcome red-hot super-bantamweight Carl Frampton on board. The Belfast banger defends his IBF Intercontinental strap on my bumper promotion starring Dereck Chisora at Wembley Arena on July 20.
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The most gemerous man I ever knew
BOXING lost a dear friend and supporter with the passing of Jimmy Wray MP.
He was the most generous man I ever had the privilege to meet.
A former boxer from Glasgow, Jimmy served on the Parliamentary Committee for boxing and did a lot of stellar work behind the scenes to safeguard the sport’s interest. I was a proud best man at his wedding.
Rest peacefully, Jim.