Letter : Let's be frank

SPORTS LETTER

Let's be Frank

From Mr S Malcolm

Sir: Once again the quality of Frank Bruno's opponents during his build- up to a possible title challenge has caused uproar and more accusations of a farce. Some may even ask whether his pantomime season continues in the ring as well as out of it.

Bruno was convincingly beaten during his three attempts at the title, on each occasion clearly exposing his limitations. The simple reason for his failures is that he has never defeated a top heavyweight, despite being placed in the top 10 himself. This had more to do with the leading fighters losing than Bruno's ability, since his record shows a list of over-the-hill fighters with little inclination to go the distance. He is unlikely to be champion with a string of one-round KOs against feeble opponents.

Are top fighters really avoiding him? Judging by Bruno's title performances and credibility, I can see little for them to fear. It is more likely that Bruno is avoiding them. Boxing is a business and his promoters could easily put up the money to tempt top heavyweights to Britain to meet him in an eliminator. Surely any top fighter would jump at the chance to add Bruno to their list of scalps at the right price.

Likewise, Frank would like to prove to the British public that he is not a phoney contender for the title, and is fully capable of beating fighters who can take a punch as well as throw one.

Yours,

SOLOMON MALCOLM

London, E11