GAME ON FOR ALEX
Dilmaghani set to take screen test
SURREY slicker Alex Dilmaghani spent his childhood playing as his heroes on the Fight Night computer game.
But now the British superfeatherweight ace is a big enough name to be featured on a game himself. And he can’t wait to win a world title – both virtually and in reality.
Dilmaghani, 29, takes on Samir Ziani next week for the European title, behind closed doors at Channel 5’s studios in Redditch.
But he believes that his fight-of-the-year contender against Francisco Fonseca last November alerted the Sheffield makers of a new boxing game.
“I think that fight made my stock soar in boxing,” said Dilmaghani, who felt like he deserved more than a draw against Fonseca.
“Not long afterwards Steel City interactive got in touch and wanted me involved.”
The new boxing game is called Esports Boxing Club and will feature British boxing stars past and present, including Ricky Hatton and Frank Bruno.
“When I was a kid I played Fight Night all the time so to get asked to be involved in this is great,” said Dilmaghani. “There are some big names involved.
“I can’t wait to play as myself and put me in with some of the best in boxing.
“But the only fighter who is allowed to knock me out is Erik Morales.”
Dilmaghani returns to the ring for the first time since that clash with Fonseca next week, looking to take a huge step towards his world title dream.
The European belt is on the line against French southpaw Ziani, which will fire him up the world rankings if he wins.
“The Fonseca fight has only added to my desire to become world champion,” he added.
“It showed what level I’m at and I’ve grown from it.”