On April 5th, Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena will host an event packed with heavyweight excitement. The evening's main attraction features two seasoned British fighters, Dillian Whyte and Joe Joyce, both aiming to reignite their careers. The lineup also includes Lawrence Okolie, a former cruiserweight world champion, stepping up to heavyweight for a clash with Richard Riakporhe. Adding to the anticipation is the professional debut of Delicious Orie, an Olympian who chose boxing over wrestling. This card marks the first Queensberry Promotions event to be streamed on Dazn as part of a new multi-year agreement.
In addition to the Manchester event, Queensberry Promotions has lined up other significant bouts. On May 10th, Belfast's Anthony Cacace will face Leigh Wood in Nottingham, a matchup between two former world champions. Later that month, Scotsman Josh Taylor, who recently signed with Frank Warren, will challenge WBO European title holder Ekow Essuman in Glasgow. Taylor, looking to reboot his career at welterweight after a setback in 2024, aims to reclaim his status as one of Britain's top fighters. Promoter Warren expressed optimism about the future, particularly highlighting the potential of heavyweights in shaping the sport's direction.
The upcoming events promise not only thrilling fights but also signify the resilience and determination of these athletes. Despite past setbacks, fighters like Joyce and Whyte are determined to prove themselves once more. Meanwhile, newcomers like Orie bring fresh energy and hope to the sport. As they prepare for these high-stakes matches, the spirit of competition and the pursuit of excellence shine through, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike.