Toowoomba boxer fights for world title at home
BOXING: Steve Spark’s journey onto the international boxing stage is on a fast track with the Toowoomba super lightweight to fight for a world belt on home soil in the new year.
Spark’s trainer-manager Brendon Smith confirmed the Australian champion will take on a yet-to-be-named opponent for the IBF World Youth Championship at Rumours International on March 9.
Spark’s world breakthrough followed his latest stoppage win over experienced Japanese opponent Taisha Ozawa in Towoomba earlier this month.
The 22-year-old’s stylish performance took his pro record to seven knockout or tko victories from eight fights.
Smith said the timing of Spark’s emergence had proven ideal for his title shot with the added bonus of it being held in his home town.
“This is very exciting news for Stevie,” Smith said.
“The IBF confirmed with me that the reigning champion — Enock Poulsen from Denmark — is about to turn 26 and therefore will relinquish the title.
“We were aware of that ourselves and we’ve been pushing for Steve to be considered for the fight since his win over Ozawa.
“It is now a reality with IBF president Daryl Peoples locking Steve in one corner for the vacant title fight and with us given the hosting rights.
“The world is watching Toowoomba and we’re absolutely stoked the Garden City will be the home of this bout.”
Spark’s March 9 opponent on the Brayd Smith memorial fight extravaganza card is expected to be announced in coming weeks.
“There is a strong chance it could be the undefeated boy Apinun Khongsong from Thailand who is 12-0 with nine knock-out wins,” Smith said.