Barrett to take on former AJ opponent in bareknuckle clash

RYAN Barrett follows in heavyweight hero Anthony Joshua’s footsteps in his next bareknuckle boxing match, writes Matt Bozeat.

The 35-year-old, from Coalville, meets Dorian Darch for the vacant British cruiserweight championship at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday, June 11.

Darch has made the switch from gloved pro boxing where his opponents included Joshua. The Welshman finished the two-round loss on his feet – unlike many of Joshua’s early opponents – and made the switch to bareknuckle boxing believing his toughness can take him all the way to the top.

Darch missed out on claiming the world heavyweight championship in January when Jody Meikle stopped him on cuts – and Barrett is confident that he can inflict a similar punishment.

“He’s a big, tough lad,” said Barrett. “But I’m a better boxer.

“I beat Jody three times when we were amateurs and he’s just beaten Dorian.

“Jody bust him up with his jab and that’s what I’m looking to do as well.

“I hit a lot harder than Jody and I believe I will win by knockout, but I have to be disciplined or I will be in trouble.”

There’s a chance Barrett-Darch could be for the vacant world cruiserweight championship.

Portsmouth veteran Mickey Parker took the belt off Carl Hobley and has hinted he may retire.

Promoters BKB TM are set to hand Parker a deadline to make his decision and should he retire, Barrett and Darch will fight for the vacant title.

Barrett is in line for a world-title shot having beaten Szymon Szynkiewicz in an eliminator in January. He stopped the Polish veteran in the fourth.

“It’s up to Parker to decide what he wants to do next,” said Barrett, “but either way, I’ve got a big fight to prepare for.”