Having won British, Commonwealth and European titles down at welterweight, Stourbridge warrior Sam Eggington is still chasing the missing belt in his collection.
The 2017 ‘Young Boxer of the Year’ dreams of a world title at his current weight of 154lbs despite dropping a close, but disputed decision to Ted Cheeseman in August.
Eggington returns against former British 140lbs title-holder Ashley Theophane at the Fly By Nite Rehearsal Studios in Redditch on December 11, live on Channel 5 in the UK, aiming for another run at top level.
“It would be very sad if I retired without fighting for a world title, having won the European so young [23],” said Eggington (28-7, 17 KOs). “I’ve never really had a plan. I just play it by ear, If the phone rings and it’s a decent opportunity, I always say ‘Yes’.
“I’d happily fight any of the current champions [unified champion Jermell Charlo or WBO title-holder Patrick Teixeira], I’m not picky and half the intrigue would be travelling overseas to make a challenge. Winning abroad would just make the achievement taste even better.”
Eggington had earned a high ranking with the IBF before the Cheeseman reverse and that points defeat still rankles, with a number of impartial observers also believing the Brummie had nicked it with a strong finish.
“My only regret is the decision. It left a bad taste. The fight went great. I boxed well and I thought I won. I’m not one to moan. I’m always happy to concede if a better man beats me on the night,” said Eggington.
“People say it was a fight of two halves but I clearly won two of the first six rounds and at least four or five of the last six. If Ted wins his [British 154lbs] title shot, I’d love a chance at another British title. In my mind, I’ve beat him once already and I’ll beat him even better if we do it again.”
But first Eggington must get past veteran Theophane, 40, and the all-action Brummie is predicting an emphatic finish.
“I’m told Theophane isn’t a super mover but boxes well – decent jab and left hook. He’s been round the block so, early on, I expect it’ll be cagey with him trying to box. But we’ll have to ‘get at it’ at some stage, and when that happens, I’ll have him out of there,” said Eggington.
“I badly need this win. With Ash starting out at light-welter, I expect to be naturally bigger, stronger. He’ll not last against my pressure at his age.”