Express & Star

Christopher Keane next in line for English title

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Walsall's Christopher Keane has moved a step closer in breaking through to English title reckoning after being named as the next contender to the belt.

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The British Boxing Board of Control have ordered that Keane meet the winner of next week's title tussle between champion China Clarke and Matthew Askin.

The Midlands cruiserweight champion himself boxes a six-rounder at the Institute in Birmingham on Friday April 26, against a yet-to-be named but foreign opponent.

And the 27-year-old has also been playing his part in getting Nathan Cleverly ready for his defence of the WBO world light heavyweight title in London next week.

The Welshman defends his crown for a fifth time against Germany's Robin Krasniqi at Wembley Arena in the main event next Saturday night, live on BoxNation.

Keane travelled to South Wales to put the world titlist through his paces in sparring sessions and both got vital rounds under their belts for their fight assignments.

He said: "Sparring Nathan has been great. He's at the top of his game and you pick up one or two things from people like him. It's experience that just can't buy.

"I sparred with him back in February, when he was preparing for this fight and, now it's been rescheduled, he's asked me back, which is a compliment.

"I sparred eight, 10 and 12 rounds with him and I will be looking to do the same again this time. I'm keeping myself ticking over, too, so this is ideal.

"I'm looking forward to getting back out there and getting a few rounds under my belt."

Keane's Institute appearance is regarded as a 'keep busy' bout, with the board decreeing that he will box for the English title by the end of July.

If that opportunity comes to pass, he will get the chance to mirror the 2009 ABA super heavyweight national title he won as an amateur for Pleck ABC.

He said: "I want to be active and this is a nice show to be a part of. It's only up the road for me and my fans, so I'm hoping there will be a good turnout.

"It will be a six-round contest and to be fair, as I haven't fought since January, it's just what I need. I'm looking forward to it.

"I have never boxed at the Institute, but I'm told it's a good venue that generates a good atmosphere."

The bill, titled 'the New Blood' also features Smethwick-based debutant Disney Huni, Aston's Chris Truman, Coventry's Mike O'Hagan and Tamworth's Matt Seawright.

Tickets for the Institute show are priced at £30 general, £40 ringside balcony, £50 ringside floor and £65 inner ringside.

They are available by calling 0845 467 3930 or 07888 870 650 or from www.ticketmaster.co.uk.