Sergio Martinez v Darren Barker live on Sky Sports

September 27, 2011   ·   0 Comments

‘Dazzling’ Darren Barker believes he can shock the world when he challenges Sergio Martinez for the Mexican’s WBC Diamond Middleweight title on Saturday 1 October at the historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, live on Sky Sports.

The unbeaten European champion makes his debut in the States against the toughest opponent possible in his division. The 28 year-old says he is relishing the chance to test himself against the man known as “Maravilla”, and is banking on his travelling support to roar him to victory.

Speaking ahead of the fight, Barker said : “I cannot wait to get in the ring with Sergio Martinez,”

“I have massive respect for him as a fighter but he has the title that I have always wanted and on October 1 I’m coming to take it.

“Fighting in America for the first time is really exciting too and I hope that my loyal fans will come over in droves to be a part of the biggest night of my career. I am in boxing to test myself against the very best in the business and I believe I can shock the world on October 1.”

Barker’s promoter Eddie Hearn added: “Matchroom Sport have secured a block of seats for Darren’s fans in the Boardwalk Hall and we all know that British fight fans create a fantastic atmosphere when they travel to America. This is going to be a wonderful occasion for both Darren and British boxing and I’m sure the fans will come over in great numbers to get behind him.”

Martinez said : “I will put on a marvellous performance for fight fans worldwide. I know Darren Barker is a tough challenger and will bring a loud contingent of fans, but so did Kelly Pavlik when I fought at Boardwalk Hall last April. Being universally recognized as the pound-for-pound king is my ultimate goal and I won’t stop until I’ve achieved that.”

Fight Night International Live : Sergio Martinez v Darren Barker is on Sky Sports HD1 at 2.30am on Saturday 1 October (early hours of Sunday morning). 

Tags: Boardwalk Hall, Darren Barker, Eddie Hearn, Sergio Martinez, Sky Sports