By Ben Carey
Ajose Olusegun will now contest the vacant British light-welterweight title against Nigel Wright at the Liverpool Olympia a week today (June 12) following Barry Morrison’s withdrawal. Olusegun’s Commonwealth 10st title will also be on the line.
Olusegun successfully defended his Commonwealth crown against Wright in Peterlee 16 months ago. Spurred on by fighting in his home-town, Wright began brightly and momentarily dazed Olusegun in round three but faded down the stretch allowing Olusegun to gradually take over and clinch a deserved unanimous points win. Since then the talented but largely avoided Olusegun has treaded water and has fought only once this year, outclassing Scott Haywood in seven rounds.
Nearly-man Wright’s career has stuttered following points defeats to future British champion Paul McCloskey and eventual Prizefighter Welterweight winner Michael Lomax in the semi-finals. Wright’s best hope of working his way back into title contention seemed to hinge on him defeating Barry Morrison who he was paired with in a British title eliminator. However, when McLoskey recently vacated his British title to pursue European honours, Morrison was paired with Olusegun but the Scot’s sudden withdrawal has now presented Wright with another opportunity.
The Nigerian-born Olusegun, who is now eligible to contest the British title, is ranked no.6 by the WBC and unbeaten in 26 fights (13 inside) and desperate to secure a meaningful fight. He can be complacent on occasions but will start an overwhelming favourite to once again defeat fellow-southpaw Wright.
