Owen’s title foe fails to make 12st weight

Andy Owen…now fighting for light-heavyweight belt

ANDY Owen’s dream title fight became mired in controversy after his opponent stepped on the scales four pounds over the super-middleweight limit.

The mouth-watering clash between the Wolverhampton veteran and Michael Stephenson will still take place at the Hangar Events Venue, in the fighter’s home city, tomorrow, Friday, March 10.

I understand behind-the-scenes talks have taken place to have the pair fight for the vacant Midlands light-heavyweight belt. The super-middle (12st) crown was meant to be on the line.

Owen would be forgiven for feeling frustrated over events at today’s public weigh-in. A late addition to the pro sport, this was, effectively, his world title shot. He had made the sacrifices to drag his body inside the super-middle limit.

The scales say Stephenson, from Northampton, did not show the same fortitude.

Owen, still billed out of Perton but now living in Shifnal, declined to comment.

His trainer, respected Black Country fighter figure Richard Carter, a former superb amateur and fine pro, said only: “Unprofessional on his (Stephenson’s) part.

“We have agreed to fight him for the light-heavyweight title.”

At 33, Owen made the decision to turn over late, but hit the ground running, forcing Ryan Hibbert to retire after two rounds.

“That was a great night,” said Andy. “It was on a Fightzone card in the open air at Sheffield Arena.”

He has now won four of five.

The father-of-two is a no-frills fighter with his feet firmly on the ground. There are no elaborate predictions about what the future holds.

“I’m not daft,” I know my levels,” he told me. “I’ve been around the gyms for a long, long time. I’ve sparred some top quality kids, so I know I can compete at a good level.

“For me, it’s all about the next fight and see from there. If I win, it will be a case of pushing on.

“In my mind, I’m a young fighter. I don’t have the miles on the clock, I’m quite fresh.”

Until today, Owen was within touching distance of being super-middleweight champ of the whole Midlands. Tonight he’ll dream about being the light-heavyweight kingpin.