Hackney man fully prepared for fight against experienced opponent

WITH a British title shot likely to happen sooner rather than later, Clapton heavyweight Larry ‘The War Machine’ Olubamiwo admits Saturday’s fight against John McDermott is the most important of his career to date.

The 32-year-old is currently ranked 10 by the British Boxing Board and the Hackney man knows an impressive performance against the seasoned Essex-based pro will stand him in good stead for a shot at Dereck Chisora’s crown.

“This is most definitely my biggest fight to date,” Olubamiwo said.

“The fact I am defending my Southern Area title and he is ranked one place higher than me could lead to a fight for the British or Commonwealth title which is why this fight is so important.”

After a six-bout unbeaten run which has pushed him to the brink of challenging for a major title, a surprise defeat would be unthinkable for a man desperate to make the most of a career in the ring.

Olubamiwo has spent plenty of time not just in the gym but studying tape on the 32-bout veteran to make sure he is fully prepared for the fight at the home of British boxing.

“I’ve been bringing up all aspects of my game and I really mean it, it’s not just talk. I realise what a win could lead to,” he said.

“I have watched his two fights against Danny Williams, his two fights with Tyson Fury and his contest with Pele Reid and he is a good technical fighter who is solid in defence.

“Of course it would be nice, but I don’t need a big knockout to catch the attention of people. I just need a solid win. I predict I will win, but I won’t say how.”

Victory could lead to a fight at number two ranked British rival Tyson Fury, a man who has twice beat McDermott, although the first triumph came in controversial circumstances, with promoter Frank Maloney describing the decision as ‘daylight robbery’.

The decision and performance of Fury caused uproar and he dominated McDermott in their rematch stopping his opponent in the eighth.

“Tyson Fury is someone who is definitely on my radar,” Olubamiwo said.

“I’m ranked number one challenger for his English title. He would be a great opponent for me. He took a lot of stick after that first McDermott fight, but in the second bout he showed a lot of heart and I admire him for doing that and I admire his ambition. He wants to win titles at a young age.”