Big punching Danny plays waiting game
Danny Ball…waiting for title chance on televised bill
BLACK Country banger Danny Ball is a man caught in something of a boxing no man’s land – and the frustration is understandable.
Kingswinford’s former British welterweight title challenger was to have fought Anthony Tomlinson on Friday for the English belt. He would have had home advantage, with the bout taking place in Dudley.
That date was shelved after major promoters Matchroom offered to stage the 10 rounder on one of their televised show, says Danny. That would’ve meant bigger money, bigger exposure.
The 26-year-old still hopes the bout will takes place next month – April 15 or April 29 were initially put forward as possible dates, but confirmation has yet to be given.
“It’s frustrating,” Ball, who has lost only one of 14, admitted, “because there’s only so much you can do until a date is announced. I can’t see it happening in April, to be honest, it’ll more likely be May.”
Like Ball, 31-year-old Tomlinson hits hard: seven of his 15 victories have come inside distance. He’s held the Central area and IBO Continental titles, but the only loss on his record was conclusive and telling.
In a thriller, Mexico’s former world title challenge Dante Jordan halted the Sheffield favourite with a right hand in the ninth.
Ball said this week: “I think I beat him in style.”
He certainly has the ammo to do that.
Back in 2019, rugged Mason Cartwright made the mistake of under-estimating Ball’s punch and was halted in three with the WBC international silver title on the line.
Ball also fought valiantly against Kaisee Benjamin, who carries dynamite in both hands. The Midlands title clash ended in a draw, which I felt fair although many believed Ball had taken the belt.
His only loss came in a 2021 British and Commonwealth title battle with dominant champ Ekow Essuman – and it was a painful one.
Danny was dropped in the sixth, the blows fracturing his jaw. With blood spilling from his open mouth, the challenger was forced to stay on the canvas while the full count tolled.
“I didn’t feel anything until I bit down on my gumshield,” Danny said. “I gained massive experience from that fight, I thought I was in that fight, but that’s boxing – one punch can change everything.”