Lawrence Okolie wants Anthony Joshua undercard spot after settling Isaac Chamberlain grudge
Big-hitter bullied his British rival over 10 rounds of gritty boxing with co-promoter AJ sat ringside
LAWRENCE OKOLIE wants to jump straight on mentor Anthony Joshua's March 31 undercard after settling his grudge with Isaac Chamberlain.
On an AJ Boxing co-promotion, with the heavyweight champ sitting ringside, Okolie bullied his enemy to a decision win over 10 rounds of hard watching.
But - with the bad blood sorted and the British Beef overcooked - the undefeated Hackney beast wants another light-heavyweight fight in a few weeks.
Okolie said: "Isaac tested me, this is a benchmark and I want to push on from this.
"I want to have a little rest, I want to box on the Anthony Joshua undercard next.
"I knew it wouldn't be pretty, I hurt him early.
"I have nothing but respect for him and his mental fortitude.
"I'm nowhere near the finished article, there’s a lot of mental and physical work to do."
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Okolie, 25, had his honesty echoed by Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn who would have heard the boos as both fighters were deducted points for holding.
Like James DeGale and George Groves - who clashed early in their careers and went on to become world champions - Hearn hopes the underwhelming O2 clash acts as a springboard for both lads.
Hearn said: "Okolie has a lot to learn, but it's a big win from Okolie, he was impressive in parts, but other parts he has to work on.
"Isaac got hurt and tried to recover. It was very scrappy. A big ten rounds for Okolie's career.
"Both guys have a future, Isaac will come back while Okolie will move forward to British title shots as soon as possible.
"There will be a lot more exciting performances from Okolie to come."