According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBA Lightweight champion Richar Abril will defend against Englishman Derry Matthews on March 6 in Liverpool, England.
“Derry started his pro career with me and rejoined me in 2013, and I promised him then that I’d get him a world title shot and I’m delighted to now deliver his dream of fighting for a world title in his home city,” said promoter Frank Warren. “He has been a loyal servant to the sport in which he has won a multitude of [regional] titles and been involved in some fantastic fights, but the only thing missing has been the world title opportunity, so it is a pleasure to get him the [shot].”
“I’m looking forward to defending my title against Derry Mathews,” Abril said. “He is a tough, experienced fighter, but I plan on coming to the U.K., getting the KO and leaving with my belt.”
“It’s a dream come true for me to finally fight for the world title, but to have the opportunity to do it in my home city is unbelievable, and I thank Frank Warren, who promised he’d get me a crack at the world title when I rejoined him, for delivering me my chance,” Mathews said. “Whereas other fighters from the city have had to go overseas for their chances, Frank has got me mine on my own doorstep and now it’s down to me to deliver the goods on my side and win the title.
“I’m not underestimating Abril one bit. He’s the world champion, but I’m confident in my own abilities and I believe that I have the tools to end Abril’s reign and take the world title from him. He’s not a huge puncher, and I believe that it’s my time to take over.”
“I really felt for Anthony,” Mathews said. “Yes, we’re sporting rivals, but that was terrible what happened and I was truly gutted for him. I hope that he gets medically cleared and fit to box so that he can resume his career because he’s a tremendous fighter and person. He missed out on his shot at Abril because of what happened, but should I come through against Abril and win, then I will give him a shot at the world title. A third fight between us is a natural and would be a fantastic battle of Britain.”
