THE KNOCKOUT DUO
Joe Walker previews Yarde’s first fight of 2018
Heavy hitters Yarde and Dubois aim to continue their destructive streaks
YORK HALL, Bethnal Green hosts the 10-round light-heavyweight clash between Ilford’s Anthony Yarde, 14-0 (13), and seasoned Frenchman Tony Averlant, 26-9-2 (5). Queensberry Promotions stage this BT Sport and Boxnation-televised event this Saturday (February 24).
Yarde – nicknamed “The Beast” – enjoyed a successful 2017. In May, he took the Southern Area title from Chris Hobbs, who was broken down in four. Yarde went on to stop Richard Baranyi in the first round in July, before also securing early victories over Norbert Nemesapati (September) and Nikola Sjekloca (December). All four opponents had decent records.
Former two-time European title challenger Averlant, from Lehaucourt, has nine defeats but has only been stopped twice. One of those stoppages came against former world champion Juergen Braehmer in April 2013. The 33-year-old visitor is a tall, rangy fighter who sets up combinations behind his long left jab. However, he isn’t known for his power, with only five inside-schedule successes in 37 fights.
Yarde, 26, has a vicious shortleft hook, as well as impressive speed and weight distribution. He claims that he is ready for world title fights already, and a win here keeps him on track, but won’t provide the necessary seasoning. Yarde should claim the victory in brutal fashion.
In a Southern Area heavyweight title bout over 10, reigning titlist Daniel Dubois, 6-0 (6), of Greenwich, takes on Queenborough’s DL Jones, 8-0-1. “Dynamite” Dubois has blitzed all of his opponents so far, while Jones hasn’t managed to defeat anyone inside the distance. Dubois can add another KO to his record here.
Rising super-featherweight Zelfa Barrett, 19-0 (12), also features in a 10-round contest. The Manchester man meets Dundee southpaw Ronnie Clark, 20-4-2 (10), who challenged for the British crown in November 2016. Barrett can become only the second fighter to force Clark out before the final bell.
THE VERDICT A trio of starlets will be looking to impress.