Local boxing will be in the spotlight on Friday, March 28, when a huge crowd will pack into the Gippsland Regional Sporting Complex (GRSC) for former world champion boxer turned promoter, ‘Wild’ Will Tomlinson’s action-packed “The 3 Kings” triple header card.
The night will be headlined by three Australian title fights, one featuring local star Max Reeves who will fight Riley Candy for the Australian Super Middleweight title.
Reeves is keen to reclaim the title he relinquished last year.
“I can’t wait to get in the ring and throw my hands and become a two time Australian champion in front of my home crowd,” Reeves said.
Rising star Jason Mallia will go head-to-head with Mirko Pizzi for the Australian Welterweight title, while Bairnsdale-based New Zealand boxer, Villiami Liavva is matched against Xavier Fletcher for the Australian middleweight title.
Tomlinson is keen for what the night might bring and is looking forward to filling the GRSC again, with the biggest production he has ever brought to the region.
It will be Reeves’ (nine wins, one loss and one draw) first outing since being stopped by Tonga Tongotongo in June last year, while Queensland-based Candy is unbeaten after five professional bouts and looks a good prospect.
“It’s a good test for Max, who has been up in Sydney working out with Tim Tszyu. Candy is tough, rugged and well schooled,” Tomlinson said.
Reeves is keen to continue his climb to the top of the Australian Super Middleweight rankings.
“Riley Candy looks a tough competitor, but it will be good to get back in the winners circle and claim my place near the top of the rankings, I know where I want to get to and victory over Riley Candy is just the start,” Reeves said.
It will be Mallia’s (nine wins) first defence of his title, having defeated the highly-rated Ben Horn in September last year to claim it.
The Italian-born Pizzi (nine wins and three losses) will be keen to claim a big scalp and the belt that goes with it.
Liavva (six wins and two losses) will be hoping to bounce back after some recent disappointments, but unbeaten Queenslander Xavier Fletcher (four wins) is well credentialed and will be keen to add the Australian title to his constantly improving resume.
“Its a great opportunity for Villi who is a late call up, but fit and ready to go, but Fletcher is a flash up and comer, if he’s to get an Australian title, he will have to earn it,” Tomlinson said.
Reeves’ coach Paul Carroll is excited for another big fight in Gippsland, and the opportunity to showcase the talent of superstar Reeves.
Carroll expects the night’s big draw card, Reeves, will put on a great display in front of disciples.
“Maxy returns as the main event chasing his second Australian title and has come back bigger and stronger with a couple of new tricks added to his repertoire,” Carroll said.
The experienced boxing mentor is keen for Liavva to seize the opportunity.
“Villi is super talented and has taken this fight at late notice but is keen on the opportunity to showcase his talent and claim a huge scalp, he has what it takes to win,” Carroll said.
Also on the card will be Sale boxer Noah Sabatura, while Jontie Grey will make his debut under the tutelage of Carroll.
Gray has a strong work ethic which is the number one ingredient to improve and the camp is looking forward to watching him showcase his skills.
Carroll is keen for everyone to get behind the boxers and get along to the event in Sale.
“Like all local events they need to be supported to remain a viable regional event so please grab
your tickets, your support will
be appreciated,” Carroll said.
