HORNET’S HAPPY TO FACE HIS JUDGEMENT DAY
WORLD boxing champion Jeff Horn plans to take judging dramas out of the equation in the possible rematch with Manny Pacquiao.
The two remaining sticking points before a return bout for the WBO welterweight belt can be locked in are a venue and the selection and vetting of fight judges.
US experts raged at the decision from the first encounter at Suncorp Stadium on July 2 when Horn was handed a unanimous points decision over the boxing legend.
The WBO rescored the fight and the results vindicated Horn. The WBO has reportedly been asked to submit judges’ names so they can “be fully vetted by both sides” before the next fight.
“Just give us a date, a time and the place to show up so we can get it on,’’ Horn said.
“There was so much backlash on that last fight with judging and then going to a recount.
“I think I’ll improve from the first time and when I beat him again, it won’t be considered a fluke.’’
Promoter Bob Arum reportedly said the rematch was “pretty much there’’ with the search for a venue for the November or December showdown continuing.
Horn’s preference is to return to Suncorp Stadium but understands that the brutal Queensland summer could force the fight indoors to Boondall or to Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.
“It is exciting to know the wheels are moving and we are progressing. Hopefully it can be back in Brisbane again. The atmosphere there (Sunscorp Stadium) was amazing.
“Boondall is a lot smaller but doesn’t affect the TV audience.
“I’m just happy to take the fight and my main concern is that it is in Australia.’’