Lindsay to heat things up
8 December 2010 – Cormac Campbell
It may be freezing outside, but Martin Lindsay is promising to heat things up when he defends his British featherweight title against John Simpson at the Kings Hall on December 15.
The unbeaten Belfast box-puncher is making the second defence of the crown he won by defeating the much touted Paul Appleby at the Ulster Hall last April. That was the last time Lindsay headlined in his hometown a shocking statistic when one considers the Mac Mans ability to shift tickets.
Being the main event is great anywhere but it is extra special for it to be back in Belfast, he told irish-boxing.com.
I took 1,000 tickets and have less than 100 left. There should be a few thousand at it as I know Luke and Alio Wilton took 600 tickets. There are a lot of local boxers on the undercard like Jamie Conlan and Tommy Tolan as well so there should be a great atmosphere and a good crowd even though a Wednesday night a week out from Christmas isnt ideal.
University graduate Lindsay has waited long enough to headline a bill at the famous Finaghy venue, and as a result he hasnt let the cold snap interfere with his preparations.
My weight is perfect, he said. Im still able to do my running on all weather fields. Ive got a pair of mouldies so it hasnt been a problem. Im used to training over Christmas in the cold so Im used to it. Ive been sparring (Commonwealth Gold Medallist) Eamonn OKane, who is a middleweight so I can go 12 hard rounds.
I dont really watch opponents, I just focus on my own gameplan. Obviously I have an idea of what Simpson will try and do but I will be trying to impose my gameplan on him.
Whilst acknowledging the challenge posed by Scotsman Simpson, Lindsay has one eye on bigger and better things.
This is my second defence and one more after that I would keep the belt. I think Simpson gets the belt for keeps if he wins but he isnt going to win.
Im number one ranked for the European title so my shot will come eventually. Id drop the British title now to fight for it but if I have to wait I will make a voluntary.
