ACROSS THE VALLEYS

If you have a story which you would like to share, please contact Valleys Life.

CEFN FFOREST
Nathan to box clever in title eliminator

European light-heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly intends to make a statement against Karo Murat in their WBO eliminator at The LG Arena, Birmingham on 18 September.

The bout is not expected to be for the WBO interim title, as originally billed, but is being described as an official eliminator for champion Juergen Braehmer's crown. Whether or not a world title bout is pending, Cleverly's clash with the equally unbeaten Murat is one that Welsh boxing fans are looking forward to. Murat, who was born in Iraq and spent time in Armenia, has angered Nathan with some of his pre-fight comments and the 23 year old from Cefn Fforest near Blackwood seems more than a little irritated by his opponent. "I'm the total opposite to being a 'gobby' fighter. It's rare that I criticise my opponents," said Cleverly. "I don't claim to be Joe Calzaghe. I'm my own fighter, out to create my own legacy." He added, "Murat is a step up, but I always raise my performance for a step up. I'm going to put on another special performance."

We're big boxing fans here at Valleys Life and wish Nathan and all the fighters a great night's boxing. Tickets are still available as we go to print - it'll certainly be one worth watching.