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Last Updated: Monday, 22 March, 2004, 11:13 GMT
Harrison to bypass Britons
Audley Harrison
Audley Harrison set his sights on the European and world stage after claiming the WBF title with an easy knockout win over Richel Hersisia on Saturday.

The 32-year-old confirmed he would bypass British rivals Michael Sprott, Danny Williams and Matt Skelton.

"Now I'm in the mix in Europe and on the world scene, so there will be a lot of opportunities," Harrison said.

"Britain needs another heavyweight who has no fear and is prepared to go in and battle. I'm looking to clean up."

European title holder Luan Krasniqi may now be a legitimate target for Harrison, who has given himself 18 months to challenge for a "real" world belt.

But retired WBC champion Lennox Lewis, who was co-promoting Harrison's return to Wembley, says "A-Force" should not be hurried during his rise through the ranks.

When I went into the dressing room I thought I was looking at Superman
Lennox Lewis

"It is unfair because a man has to have that time to learn his craft," said Lewis.

"He was the best amateur in the world but not the best professional, he needs that time and shouldn't be criticised on the way up."

Lewis predicted that Harrison would be in the world's top 10 within a year.

"Audley's made a proper step up and next time we see him fight he's going to make another step," said Lewis.

"He's catapulted himself up the rankings and should definitely be in the top-10 in the next 12 months, no doubt.

"When I went into the dressing room I thought I was looking at Superman. It's obvious he is taking it very seriously.

"If you look at his body you can see how much time he's dedicated and you can tell this man wants to be a champion.

"I can see it in his eyes and you can see it how he ended that fight."




WATCH AND LISTEN
BBC Five Live's Jonathan Rawling
"Harrison's finishing burst was mightily impressive"


WBF heavyweight champion Audley Harrison
"I am moving into the Premiership of boxing"



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