Mathews backs Fowler’s Olympic dream

Liverpool’s world title challenger Derry Mathews is backing fellow Scouser Anthony Fowler to bag himself a place at this summer’s Olympic Games.

Fowler, cousin of Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, will be making his first appearance of the season in the World Series of Boxing when he takes Rodriguez Olivas of the Mexico Guerreros tomorrow night at York Hall, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

The unbeaten British Lionhearts’ will be looking to extend their lead at the top of Group B and ‘Dirty’ Derry says he has every confidence Fowler will secure himself a seat on the plane to Rio.

“It’s a massive opportunity for him. Winning a medal at the Rio Olympics would instantly turn him in to a household name. Going to an Olympic Games and winning a medal is your ultimate goal as an amateur; it doesn’t get bigger than that. So many non-boxing people watch the fights and it’s a massive event to be a part of. He’s a good fighting man and he trains his heart out; I’ve got my fingers crossed for him,” said Mathews.

He added: “His cousin Robbie Fowler has already achieved great things in football and now it’s on Andy to keep it in the family and go and do it in the boxing ring. We attended the same school and I know him well from the amateur circle so it’s fantastic seeing him progressing so well.”

Boxing is soaring in Liverpool and boast a rich batch of champions and contenders. Mathews is proud that Merseyside is flying the flag for British boxing and hopes it continues to do so for many years.

He said: “At the moment Liverpool is the hotbed of British boxing. It seems like there’s at least two boxers living in every street in the city and we’re lucky to have so many great champions and fighters. The boxing clubs are doing a great job with the kids and there’s some real talent coming through the amateur ranks; long may it continue.”

Mathews, who is gearing up for his massive world title showdown with Mancunian rival Terry Flanagan on Saturday 12th March at the Liverpool Echo Arena, believes Olympic hopeful Fowler possesses the right credentials to make a name for himself in the professional ranks.

He said: “I think he’ll make a tremendous pro if he chooses to go down that route. Not only does he have the right attitude and mental toughness; he’s also got the right physique and power to make a great career for himself. Anthony is always involved in exciting fights in the WSB and his style of fighting will put bums on seats. Professional boxing is all about being able to take big blows and still come back for more and Anthony is as tough as they come.”

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