Hennessy is buzz word for fighters

From the archive, first published Friday 10th Feb 2006.

West Yorkshire can rediscover the boxing "buzz". That is Chris Aston's hope after his prize fighters Mark Hobson and Dale Robinson were offered a deal with new promoters Hennessy Sports.

Aston believes the change, which could also include James Hare in the near future, can breathe fresh life into the local scene by bringing televised shows back to the region.

Hobson returns to the ring with a six-rounder at York Hall next Friday, probably against veteran Tony Booth.

Then there are plans for a defence of his Commonwealth cruiserweight title in April - hopefully in Huddersfield.

Robinson and Hare, who is recovering from a recent shoulder operation, would be lined up to feature on a strong undercard.

"We need to put some shows on and get the interest back," said Aston. "It lost the buzz but we can get things going again.

"The same thing happened in Nottingham as well but they have rejuvenated it there. It just needs help from the promoters to get it working."

Aston's gym has traditionally been governed by Matchroom's Tommy Gilmour but they have grown increasingly unhappy with the lack of work on offer over the past 18 months.

A tie-up with Mick Hennessy, who has done wonders for Junior Witter's prospects, promises to change that.

Hobson could be in action three times in the next six months. He must also defend the British belt by the end of June - most likely against either Tommy Eastwood or Dean Francis, who face off in a final eliminator.

Hobson has not thrown a punch since carving

a dogged points win over Bruce Scott in Huddersfield 14 months ago. A showdown with arch-rival David Haye twice fell down last year, although Hobson still remains keen on nailing the cocky southerner.

Aston has no qualms about the big man rediscovering his title-winning form despite the lengthy lay-off.

"Mark understands all that has happened and he is fine," said Aston. "It was nobody's fault that things went wrong with the Haye fight.

"He's had a long break but will come back refreshed and ready to move on. Mark obviously needs the warm-up but then he'll be ready to go with the Commonwealth mandatory defence.

"There are a few good names on that list and we've been offered a couple already. It will be a decent fight to show that he is back on the scene."

Canadian champion Troy Ross has been

mentioned as a possible opponent. Hennessy has strong contacts in Canada and America which could open up further avenues for Aston's trio.

Archive Home