Boxing: Maccarinelli's power points to another quick finish

At a time when far too many boxers hold far too many versions of world titles, it is refreshing to watch the continuing exploits of World Boxing Union cruiserweight incumbent Enzo Maccarinelli.

At a time when far too many boxers hold far too many versions of world titles, it is refreshing to watch the continuing exploits of World Boxing Union cruiserweight incumbent Enzo Maccarinelli.

Tonight at the Newport Sports Centre, Wales, Maccarinelli defends his title for the fourth time when he meets Belgium's Ismail Abdoul in a fight that is optimistically scheduled to last 12 rounds but is unlikely to go beyond five or six.

Last year, Maccarinelli won the title by knocking out Bruce Scott, but he first had to climb up from the canvas after a knock-down in round one. The win alerted people to both his vulnerability and power.

Maccarinelli's first defence lasted 70 seconds, his second was over in 90 seconds and in his third he dropped Garry Delaney seven times before the fight was stopped in round eight. The 23-year-old is possibly the most exciting, young fighter on the British scene and is at least more memorable than most of the other 18 so-called British world champions because of his obvious punching power.

Tonight he has been matched with an opponent with a proven record of surviving against quality boxers but statistics and previous encounters often mean nothing once Maccarinelli's fists start flying. He is not the prettiest boxer to watch and he can be hurt but, when on top, Maccarinelli is always extremely enjoyable on the eye. Hopefully, he will soon take a step up in class and be able to test his punch against a quality fighter with a solid chin.