The Gentleman could make boxing history in British title showdown

The Gentleman admits: "I’m definitely the B-side"

John Hedges is under no illusions that he is stepping into the lion’s den against Pat Brown in Manchester this Saturday, September 19 – but the Essex boy admits he is relishing the prospect of being the ‘underdog’.

Both undefeated, Hedges and Brown collide for the British & Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles at Co-op Live, live worldwide on the Global Home of Boxing DAZN.

Unbeaten bookies’ favourite Brown (6-0, 6 KOs) headlines in his home city as the away fighter. However, Hedges (12-0, 3 KOs) accepts that he is the “B-side” knowing that his rival will have his legion of fans in attendance.

Yet 'The Gentleman' is confident that he will celebrate a major upset this weekend when he collides with the Team GB Olympian, looking to write his name in the history books as one of the youngest domestic champions at the age of 24.

Speaking to Matchroom Boxing's Day in the Life series, Hedges said: "[Victory on Saturday] would make me the second youngest British Cruiserweight Champion since Glen McCorry. So, it’s quite massive for me. Especially at this age to be at this level.

“It’s a great position to be in. I’m aware of the challenge ahead. I’m a massive underdog. I have pretty much been written off by everyone. 

“Although I’m the A-side in this fight, I know I’m definitely the B-side. But I kind of like that. There’s no pressure. 

“I have fought on some massive undercards in the past: AJ, Filip Hrgovic, Lawrence Okolie, Katie Taylor. The list goes on. But now it’s my show. I’m the headline. I’ve been co-Main Event. Now it’s my time to headline on my own.

“I’m an awkward day’s work for any man. I’m excited.”

Fight Week Schedule

THURSDAY: Press Conference
Venue: Vertu Place, Co-op Live
Address: 1 Sportcity Way, Etihad Campus, Manchester, M11 3DL
Time: 12pm arrivals for 1pm start

FRIDAY: Weigh-In
Venue: New Century Hall
Address: 34 Hanover Street, Manchester, M4 4AH
Time: 5pm arrivals with fighters on scales from 6pm

SATURDAY: Fight Day 5k
Venue: House of Social
Address: 10 Sir Howard Bernstein Approach, Manchester, M15 4ND
Time: 9.30am meet for 10am start
Sign-up link: https://clubspark.englandathletics.org/MatchroomRunClub/