Melvin-Broughton to open Planet Ice bill

Scott Melvin and Mykey Lee-Broughton fight for the title tomorrow

IN a departure from tradition, the big Birmingham fight – Scott Melvin v Mykey Lee Broughton for the vacant Midlands lightweight title – will open tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) show at Solihull’s Planet Ice.

Opening bell for the 10 rounder between two of the Second City’s hottest prospects is scheduled to sound at 7pm.

It’s a bold move by promoter Tommy Owens. Fans are usually eased into the evening with a four-rounder, rather than being hit with the bill-topper. Main events are the ultimate or penultimate offering.

It’ll be interesting to see if it works. I’ll be interested to receive feedback from readers.

But, then, Tommy has a lot of action to squeeze into the “All The Lights” bill.

After the explosion of the derby title fights, comes the earthquake of the lightweight Top Boxer tournament: a last man standing competition involving eight men in bouts of three rounds duration.

No feeling out the opposition, no rest rounds, just straight into an old-fashioned tear-up.

The draw was made last night and, for starters, fans will get: Dylan Norman v Louis Fielding; DJ Tollerton v Danny Williams; Ryan Griffiths v Stefan Vincent; Michael Mooney v Harley Marginson.

There’s also the third professional bout of former world class amateur Niall Farrell’s career. The Kingstanding lightweight is followed by a huge fan base – and over 500 will be present tomorrow to cheer on their favourite.

At least Melvin and Broughton, with their business complete, can relax and watch the action.

Speaking of the decision to put them on first, Jon Pegg, Melvin’s manager, said: “Fans are usually a bit tired by the end of a show. We thought we’d give them the title fight while they’re fresh and buzzing.”