Can Joe Hughes Win The European Super-Lightweight Championship – With One Hand?

He bids to take the belt off Anthony Yigit on Saturday night – and don’t expect to see the 27 year old from Malmesbury in Wiltshire throw too many right hands at the champion in the fight screened live on Channel Five.

Because he was born with Erb’s palsy – paralysis of the arm due to nerve damage – his right arm is three inches shorter than his left and while that means he starts every fight at a big disadvantage, Hughes says he’s developed what he calls “a unique style” that’s taken him to 15 wins in 18 fights (one draw).

“I have a style he hasn’t seen before,” said Hughes.

“He (Yigit) has had lots of amateur fights (140) and will think he can figure me out – but I have a unique style.

“I mostly use my left hand and I’m much better with my left hand than most people are.

“People get out of the ring after sparring or fighting me saying how strange it was.

“It’s different to what they have seen before.

“I win fights with my defence, brain – and my left hand.

“My timing with my left hand is better than most fighters have. Because I’m short for the weight, I’ve always had to out jab taller opponents and learned how to do it. It’s all about when you throw the punch.”