Bedfordian boxer, Michael Stephenson was back in the winners circle on Saturday night (7 September) after beating Harry Matthews in a six-round non-title boxing bout at the Park Inn Hotel in Northampton.
The former Midlands light-heavyweight belt holder is now in line for an English title challenge after beating Matthews on points by a 58-56 margin in the contest after losing his Midlands title to Cliff Henry in Birmingham in April.
Stephenson is back on the championship hunt after he picked up the Midlands light-heavyweight title in impressive fashion at the beginning of 2023 with victory against Andy Owen; his eighth win in nine professional fights.
Read: Michael Stephenson storms to Midlands light heavyweight boxing title
However, a second professional loss in April to Henry saw him vacate the title but Stephenson is now back on track to regain a belt in the coming months.
This return to winning ways leaves Stephenson as the mandatory challenger for the English light-heavyweight title, with terms agreed and a televised title fight against unbeaten light-heavyweight English title holder, Troy Jones, on the cards.
Jones picked up the title earlier in August with a unanimous points decision victory against incumbent, Leon Willings. However, Stephenson is confident that now is his time as his career takes another leap into uncharted territory.
“Saturday’s win leaves me as the challenger for the English title, and we’ve agreed terms with Troy Jones for that fight”, said Stephenson, speaking to Bedford Independent.
“It was a comfortable performance, I executed my game plan and just boxed behind the jab. I didn’t want to get into any wars but I never really got out of first gear”, added Stephenson.
“Now, we’re just awaiting a venue and we’re [Jones and Stephenson] are under the same manager so it should be a good fight.”
“We’re on the lookout for sponsors, so if anyone is wanting to get involved, give me a shout!”
Stephenson is hoping the English title fight will be taken on by Matchroom Boxing, founded by legendary promoter, Barry Hearn and now run by his son, Eddie Hearn.
If you wish to enquire about sponsoring the upcoming English title fight, you can contact Michael Stephenson directly via his Instagram page here.
