ROB NORTON vs MICKY STEEDS

Micky Steeds, once a 240-pounder, has shown admirable dedication in trimming down to cruiserweight, and after three wins in this weight class he gets his big chance when he meets Rob Norton for the vacant British title on Friday.

Steeds, 25, is making his second British title attempt, having been outpointed by heavyweight Scott Gammer two years ago.

Norton, 36, has lost in British and Commonwealth title attempts but he had won seven in a row by stoppage before losing on points to German-promoted prospect Enad Licina last December.

Steeds is the fresher of the two fighters, but Norton is more experienced — and he’s a southpaw. Norton also seems to be the harder hitter. In March of last year he suffered an injured right arm but pulled out a victory by nailing his opponent, Tommy Eastwood, with a big left hand in the eighth round.

I haven’t been able to have a look at either man and don’t have a solid opinion on this fight. Steeds seems to be sturdy and hard working. He might be able to come on in the second half of the fight and outlast the older man. Norton, though, is the favourite. He is fighting in his home area, he has a lot of experience, and after a 15-year career one has the feeling that this could be his big night.