Fielding deserved a slot on major TV bill

Fielding (right) and Hatton at the weigh-in

I HAVE total respect for Tamworth lightweight Louis Fielding, unwavering admiration.

Since turning pro in 2014, the 32-year-old has, through a string of small hall performances, kept boxing buoyant at grass roots level.

Louis always comes to fight, always gives his all.

He’s one of the game’s unsung heroes. And for that reason, I was pleased Louis finally gained a slot on a major, televised bill.

Last night (Saturday), he faced Campbell Hatton, undefeated son of world champ Ricky at the O2 Arena, Greenwich, London, on a bill topped by Anthony Joshua.

Frankly, defeat in a scheduled eight rounder was predictable. The contest’s brevity was not.

Hatton evoked memories of his famous dad by demolishing Louis in one minute 29 seconds with a left hook to the body.

Louis wasn’t beaten up, he was badly winded.

From all accounts he loved the pre-fight build-up and revelled in the glitz and razzmatazz of a major, televised show.

Louis, in the twilight years of his career, got a taste of what big time boxing is all about. He walked away with a memory.

Manager Jon Pegg told me: “We’ve had loads of offers for Louis and said no. We don’t use fighters.

“But this was a major show against a man who, let’s be honest, isn’t a beast. Campbell Hatton is a work in progress, but he isn’t his dad.

“Louis was winded, that was it. And he landed a cracking right uppercut just before the finishing shot.

“He loved the build-up, he loved being part of the event.”

On his facebook site, Fielding said: “Happy and healthy, Came up short last night, but it’s been an amazing experience and a great show to be involved in.

“Anyone who’s boxed before and taken a body shot will know how it is. Credit to Campbell Hatton.”

Fielding has now won 10 of 18. He’s fought for a Midlands title on three occasions and been turned back.

I’d love to see the man finally gain an area belt. The game owes him that.

Hatton won for the 11th time on the spin. He is, through his father, receiving a  big build-up on major shows, but, I feel, would be better served by an apprenticeship in small halls.