Mart aims to put title rival in the shade

Mar 12 2008 Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

COATBRIDGE boxer Martin Watson is hoping to shut out Willie Limond - with a little bit of help from a Coatbridge business.

The lightweight is being sponsored by Select Blinds ahead of his intercontinental title bout against Limond at the SECC on March 29.

Derek Hill, owner of Select Blinds, has backed the 26-year-old to deliver in what is the biggest fight of his career.

He said: “It’s an honour to support a dedicated young fighter like Martin Watson.

“I believe he is on the verge of big things and I’d urge the people of Coatbridge to get behind him for his big fight.

“I’d also like other local businesses to help the Barn Boxing Club out and give them some financial support.

“The work they do there for Martin and all the other boys is incredible.”

Watson has won 14 out of 19 professional fights and faces a tough task against a fighter who pushed Amir Khan so close in his last outing.

But Watson’s coach Rab Bannan believes his man has what it takes to provide a real upset.

He said: “I’ve got a lot of respect for Willie Limond. He is an excellent fighter and a good laddie as well.

“But Martin deserves his chance and we’re all quietly confident.”