Lindsay dominates Arthur
19 March 2010 – By Steve Wellings
Martin Lindsay retained his British featherweight title on March 19 with a unanimous points win over brave challenger Jamie Arthur. Lindsay once again impressed his travelling contingent with a near-perfect display of boxing as stubborn Arthur refused to wilt despite the champions dominance.
Lindsay (8st 13llb 8oz) signalled his intentions early with sharp jabs and left hooks as Arthur (8st 13llb 4oz) struggled to pierce the Irishmans watertight defence. An early night appeared on the cards as Jamie tasted the canvas twice in the second round. Right hands to the temple did the damage but Arthurs fine conditioning paid dividends as he lasted the course against all odds.
The challenger grew ragged and his hands lowered as the contest progressed, shipping solid hooks while offering enough replies to the body to keep referee Richie Davies at bay. A second wind in the ninth round followed a torrid eighth for the Newport man as Lindsays ring rust briefly came into play.
The Belfast champion was up on his toes in the championship rounds as both entered new territory. Welts under the eyes and a bloody gash, following a head clash, failed to deter Arthur as he doggedly reached the bell to claim nothing more than a moral victory.
The judges scoring was a formality with Phil Edwards recording 118-108, Mark Green 117-110 and John Keane 119-108.
Lindsay was understandably pleased with his first successful defence.
I always felt in control but you can see how fit Jamie was and the knockdown came a bit too soon because it made me go for a stoppage. I know I can step it up if needed and Im glad to get the rounds after a time out of the ring.
The worlds my oyster and Ill just beat whoever Frank puts in front of me, added Martin.
Promoter Frank Maloney revealed that he had now secured Lindsays signature and mentioned Akaash Bhatia as a potential future opponent.
We want to keep Martin busy and if we cant get the European title straight away then well make a voluntary defence in the meantime, said Maloney.
