Boxing: Sprott defends British title

Michael Sprott, the journeyman fighter who surprised Danny Williams to win the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles earlier this year, sets out his first defence tonight, in his home town of Reading.

Michael Sprott, the journeyman fighter who surprised Danny Williams to win the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles earlier this year, sets out his first defence tonight, in his home town of Reading.

There he faces Matt Skelton, the victor of a dull affair against one-time Mike Tyson opponent Julius Francis last time out, and unbeaten in 12 fights.

When Sprott narrowly beat Williams there were many who thought the decision was unjust but the truth is that Williams, having beaten Sprott twice already, was simply too lethargic and complacent.

Sprott deserved his glory that evening, but he will have to work even harder tonight because there is nothing complacent about Skelton's basic approach to pugilism.

Sprott should be far too experienced for Skelton but stranger things have happened in British heavyweight title fights and it is particularly hard to separate two men with too much to fight for and few places to go if they lose.