Mick Hennessy talks Froch and Barker

Livefight.com1st January, 2009

Livefight.com caught up today with promoter Mick Hennessy on the forthcoming blockbuster fights involving Carl Froch and Darren Barker, to get his views on his fighter's chances in some of their hardest opponents to date.

"The fight between Darren Barker and Matthew Macklin has really captured the public's imagination, as was evident in the Boxing news poll that was run recently about which fight the British public wanted to see. It's been a long time coming, but it's always been a fight that Darren has called for - and it's one that he can win." said Mick.

"Macklin is a really strong fighter and has scored some good results in his last few outings. But Barker really is a tremendously skilful boxer with a very talented trainer in Tony Simms, who is working really hard to deliver Barker into this fight in the shape of his life."

Barker now proudly holds the European title which he won against tough Affif Belghecham, in a difficult fight at the Alexandra Palace back in April.

"Darren is normally regarded as a thinking-man's boxer, who uses his brains to work out and take apart his opponent. Against the Frenchman he endeavoured to win that belt by knockout and discovered he hadn't been stopped for a reason. Darren neglected his usual approach to put on a performance for his fans. But against Macklin you will see a clinical operator in action and I forecast Barker will get the plaudits he deserves once he has done the business on September the 18th."

Livefight.com asked about the forthcoming Froch vs Abraham fight in Monaco on October 2nd.

"This is going to be such an incredible fight. Both men are coming off their first career defeats, both are tough and are regarded as the biggest hitters in their weight class and they will both put everything on line for this one, to guarantee their Super Six futures. Throw in the fact that it's going to be staged in such a beautiful area such as Monaco and you have all the ingredients for an amazing showdown. It really could be the best fight of the series with Froch the winner."

Livefight.com asked when tickets would likely go on sale and also if there was any truth in comments reported by Steve Bunce on Manchester radio that perhaps there was question marks hanging over the fight, even still.

"The tickets from the venue in Monaco are being organised as we speak and myself and Saulerland Events are assured their availability will be imminent. I appreciate there are many fans who have perhaps already made travel arrangements already. So as soon as they are released we can then get them on sale." Said Mick.

"With regards to the reports that Steve Bunce was quoted as saying there had been 'shenanigans surrounding the Froch fight' to a Manchester radio show with regards the Monaco event, I can confirm I spoke to Steve this morning who says he was misquoted. He actually meant that with 'all the previous shenanigans' that he was glad the fight was now on. So no cause for alarm."

-->