It’s a big, big test for Danny Quartermaine

Quartermaine…faces unbeaten Jack Hillier in Coventry

DANNY Quartermaine has the defining fight he craved for.

On October 14 at Coventry’s Sports Connexion, the red-hot prospect – and phenomenal ticket-seller – faces unbeaten Jack Hillier, another junior-lightweight tipped for big things.

That’s looking a very good night. Today it was announced Coventry lightweight Dylan Cheema had been added to the bill.

Make no mistake, this 10 rounder is Quartermaine’s acid test. The British Boxing Board of Control is currently considering applications for the contest to be either an English title final eliminator or British title eliminator.

It justifies both labels.

The fight, on Tommy Owens’ major bill, is Quartermaine’s coming out party after nine straight wins. We will see, when the dust has settled, whether he is truly a champion in waiting.

Residents of his Leamington hometown – famed for giving boxing the Turpin brothers – will come out in force to witness the milestone.

Guided by Edwin Cleary, a fine, knowledgeable trainer, Danny has glided to 9-0. He brings excitement and aggression to the ring.

In Southampton’s Hillier, he faces a 26-year-old also unbeaten in nine. A former star amateur, Hillier, who began his pro career under the wing of Shane McGuigan, is hungry, sharp and upright.

Danny, who has appeared on one major TV show, stopping Christian Lopez Flores in May, has been straining at the leash for a meaningful fight.

He’s now got it…and then some. It’s a 50-50 clash. They are evenly matched, neither have gone beyond six rounds.

Edwin Cleary said: “Danny has been saying, ‘I’m treading water, I was beating these lads as a novice. Why am I boxing these kids?’. He wanted a test.

“Hillier was with the McGuigans, but he’s not any more. There’s been a few gaps between fights.

“He’s upright  and orthodox. What more can you ask for? I think Danny, with his engine, can take over after the sixth.”

It is another great fight to add to the list.

Many months ago, Quartermaine told me 2023 would be his breakthrough year. It’s shaping up that way.

Mind you, Hillier probably feels the same way.