Watson on quest to book place among leading lightweights

May 14 2008 Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

SCOTLAND’S leading lightweights could be set for their very own prize-fighter style box-off.

Promoter Chris Gilmour believes the rich vein of talent in the 9st 9lb category could lead to regional heats and then a final to determine who is No.1.

And Gilmour has challenged Coatbridge lightweight Martin Watson to prove he deserves his place amongst the country's top performers.

Watson challenges Englishman Chris Long for the International Masters lightweight title on a joint promotion between Chris Gilmour and Carlo Rea of Gilroy Promotions at Motherwell Concert Hall on Friday, May 16.

Gilmour said: "Scotland has a history of producing great lightweights and two, Ken Buchanan and Jim Watt have, of course, gone on to win world titles and establish themselves as all-time greats.

"Whilst the current crop of fighters isn't at that level there is no doubt that the lightweight division has greatest depth of talent in the country and I believe we could add some real excitement by matching some of these guys against each other to see who is number one.

"Gary McArthur is unbeaten and a great ticket seller in Clydebank, whilst Ryan Brawley is also unbeaten and a huge hero in Irvine. That's before you even think about guys like Willie Limond and Craig Docherty from Glasgow, Aberdeen's Lee McAllister and London-based Ayrshireman Dave Stewart.

"Throw Stuart Green from Glenrothes into the mix, along with Martin if he wins against Long, and we have the basis for a fantastic tournament which could take place at venues across the country and give fans a real treat.

"But if Martin wants to take part in a tournament such as this he has to get busy and take care of business against Long on May 16."

Jointly topping the bill of the Gilmour/Gilroy promotion will be undefeated welterweight Paul Burns of Uddingston, who takes on Welshman Gavin Tait for the International Masters welterweight title.

Coatbridge light-middleweight prospect Chris Black and undefeated Motherwell light-welterweight Paul 'Charlie' King will both feature on the undercard, as well as Paisley's undefeated light-middleweight Steven Weir

Tickets are priced at £40 (reserved seating) and £30 (unreserved seating) and are available through the ticket hotline on 01236 441900, Motherwell Concert Hall on 01698 302999 or Chris Gilmour Boxing on 0141 810 5700.