Nathan Cleverly vs Tommy Karpency live on BoxNation

February 21, 2012   ·   0 Comments

Nathan Cleverly will make a hero’s return to Cardiff on Saturday 25 February to defend his WBO World Light Heavyweight Championship against American southpaw Tommy Karpency live on BoxNation.

In his first fight in Wales in over four years, unbeaten Cleverly makes the third defence of his title in front of what is set to be a 5,000 sell-out crowd at Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena. Cleverly’s last fight was a thriller against rival Tony Bellew in one of the contests of the year, and he’s looking to excite on his Cardiff return.

During the fight build-up, the Welshman has promised to win and do so in style against his opponent. A victory for Cleverly would open the possibility of a summer unification bout against either Chad Dawson or Bernard Hopkins, who contest the WBC World Light Heavyweight Championship in April.

Speaking ahead of the fight, Cleverly said : “I think there’s a lot more hype around the fight, there’s more of a buzz and a lot of excitement because it’s a homecoming event.”

“A lot of people are looking forward to the event and it’s been a long time since a world title fight has taken place in Wales – so for me to bring that back is a special personal feeling for me.”

“I’m just looking forward to fighting in front of my home fans and hopefully it’s going to be a special occasion for Welsh boxing and for myself returning home as world champion.”

American Challenger Tommy Karpency boasts a strong record of 21 wins from 24 fights with 14 knockouts. He enters this fight having previously won the Fedecentro Light Heavyweight Championship in 2009, but failed with a WBO Intercontinental challenge the following year.

A victory would represent a coming of age for Karpency, 26, who will have a passionate and partisan Cardiff crowd against him.

Cleverly’s WBO World Light-Heavyweight title defence against Karpency can be seen live and exclusive from 7.30pm on BoxNation (Sky Ch. 456/Virgin Ch. 546) on Saturday 25 February. Subscription details at www.boxnation.tv

Tags: BoxNation, Cardiff, Cardiff Motorpoint Arena, Nathan Cleverly, Tommy Karpency, Wales