Liverpool’s Anthony Fowler wants to fight either European 154lbs champion Sergio Garcia or former British title holder Ted Cheeseman next if he defeats Spaniard Jorge Fortea on February 20.
Spain’s Garcia schooled Bermondsey’s Cheeseman over 12 rounds in February 2019 and carries a WBC No.2 and WBO No.9 rating, and the Shane McGuigan trained Fowler (13-1, 10 KOs) fancies an imminent match with either man, should he be victorious next month.
“I’ve got to step up now,” said Fowler. “I’ve been pro for a few years. I’ve had 14 fights so it’s about time that I step up the levels. This lad [Fortea] is ranked in the world and he’s no mug. I’ve got to be ready for a long fight because he’s going to be hard to pin down and catch. I’ve got to keep my composure, stay calm and follow the gameplan.
“He looks like a tricky lad. He went 12 rounds with a Russian called Bakhram Murtazaliev who I think is rated number one with the IBF. This is a good test to prepare me for the bigger fights that are coming my way later this year.
“When I beat Fortea I want to box a Sergio Garcia or Ted Cheeseman. That’s the level I want to be at this year. I want to be pushing on now and testing myself. Garcia would be a great fight for me and I could potentially box him after Fortea. Until I prove myself at British and European level, I can’t start calling for the big names.
“I feel like I’m coming into my own this year. There’s no point messing around anymore. It’s time to push on now and see what level I’m at. I want to be a contender. I want to be British, European and world champion. I’ve got to be fighting these kids and beating them well. It’s about time I tested myself.”
Main image: Matchroom Boxing.