BBC SPORT | WALES | Lockett to face Russian champion

Listen to full commentary on 20 April from the Cardiff International Arena on BBC Radio Wales.

Rising light-middleweight star Gary Lockett is promising his Welsh fans a real show when he fights in Wales for the first time as a professional a week on Saturday.

The unbeaten 25-year-old from Cwmbran makes the first defence of his World Boxing Organisation intercontinental title on 20 April at the Cardiff International Arena against Russian champion Yuri Tsarenko.

The explosive punching talent of Lockett has earned him the nickname 'The Rocket', and he lived up to his moniker in February when he knocked out Australian Kevin Kelly in four rounds to capture his first title.

I will give the fans a real show

Gary Lockett

Lockett proved a star turn on Ricky Hatton's undercard in Manchester that night, and has earned the right to feature as chief support to WBO super-middleweight champion Joe Calzaghe in Cardiff.

Undefeated Calzaghe from Newbridge will make the 10th defence of his title against American Charles Brewer.

In his 16-fight professional career, Lockett has never fought in Wales and is relishing the big night as it approaches.

"I can't wait until April 20th," Lockett said. "I'm so happy that I'm fighting on home ground at last.

Joe Calzaghe will make his 10th title defence

"The last time I fought here was as an amateur five years ago. So for me this can be seen as a long awaited return or my debut.

"Either way I will give the fans a real show that they deserve."

Tsarenko, from Belarus, will prove a tough test for Lockett, but the Welsj boxer said: "I'm in fantastic shape and I can't see him lasting the distance.

"But it will be a bonus for me if I can get as many rounds under my belt before knocking him out."

The 5,000-capacity CIA is already close to being sold out and the Welsh boxing fans are sure to raise the roof supporting their heroes.

Also on the undercard will be 21-year-old light welterweight Bradley Pryce, who produced a breathtaking ninth-round stoppage of Sheffield rival Gavin Down in his last fight in February at York Hall.


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