Michael Watson: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 10:45, 2 November 2005

Revision as of 10:46, 2 November 2005

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British Champion Herol 'Bomber' Graham proved very elusive to Watson, claiming he had bigger fish to fry as he looked for a world title shot rather give Watson a shot at the British title. But after Watson defeated respectable American [[Reggie Miller]] even more impressively than one of boxing's best prospects 'The Dark Destroyer' [[Nigel Benn]], it became apparent that Watson should challenge Britain's menacing puncher Benn for his [[Commonwealth]] title. The fight was arranged quickly and recieved a lot of attention in the build-up.

Benn seemed to be using the opportunity to fight Watson as some kind of coronation, he was a fans favourite who had brutally knocked out all of his 22 opponents (most of which in the early stages) and the plan was to set Benn loose in America where his do-or-dieaggressive, exciting style was bound to find favour, Benn-Watson was screened live in America and if Benn knocked out Watson it was guaranteed from American boxing promoter [[Bob Arum]] that Benn would have a shot at Nunn. Benn was an ITV fighter whereas Watson was a BBC fighter. Benn was a puncher whereas Watson was a counter-puncher. The vast majority felt that Benn was going to blast Watson out of the ring, but a lot of shrewd people in the boxing business knew that Watson could pull off a shock.

A circus style venue, dubbed the 'super tent', was erected in North London's [[Finsbury Park]]. The excitement on the night of the fight, [[May 21]] [[1989]], was palpable both to attendees and viewers on national television where it was broadcast live on terrestrial ITV at prime time. Benn had a flashy ring entrance and looked ready, but Watson surprised everyone with his peek-a-boo style. Watson tucked up, absorbed Benn's heavy leather and knocked out the exhausted Commonwealth Champion with a jab in the sixth. It was a masterclass in strategy and execution, Watson at his best.