Cheeseman Clings On To Title

Slick challenger holds champ to a draw

- Simon Euan-Smith

TED CHEESEMAN hung on to his British super-welterweight crown with a split draw against Northampton’s Kieron Conway at York Hall. After 12 absorbing rounds, pitting the champion’s aggression against the challenger’s elusive boxing, judge Marcus McDonnell scored for Conway by 116-113, Terry O’Connor had Cheeseman ahead by 115-114, and Robert Wiliams had it 114-114.

With the judges split like that, anyone can be right – and anyone can be wrong. I thought Conway might have edged it, but I wouldn’t argue with the draw – and all credit to Cheeseman, who rallied like a champion from the 10th when it seemed to be slipping away.

The pattern was set from the first – Cheeseman (Bermondsey) pressing, Conway moving and countering, catching the champion as he came in. And when Cheeseman did get close, Conway was happy to stand and trade.

After nine rounds I thought Conway was heading for a shock win – but the champion came out strongly for the 10th, and now there were signs Conway might be fading. Twice the challenger was forced back against the ropes, and held on – and Cheeseman kept up the pressure in the 11th, definitely landing more.

But Conway had saved something for the last, and they put up a strong finish – Cheeseman coming forward, Conway moving and countering. Conway finished with a graze below the left eye – and at the bell Cheeseman raised his arms in triumph, Conway didn’t. Both can be proud of their showing, and there must be a return.

Ian John-Lewis refereed.

Craig Richards won the right to challenge British light-heavyweight champion Joshua Buatsi, taking a unanimous decision over South London rival Andre Sterling in their 12-round final eliminator. Scores were 117-111 ( John-Lewis), 116-111 (Williams) and 115112 (O’Connor). McDonnell refereed.