By Ben Carey
Coleman Barrett believes he is in the best condition ever and ready to cause a massive upset by winning Prizefighter Heavyweights III.
Barrett, 26, is one of eight heavyweights vying for £32,000 in Barry Hearn’s latest Prizefighter event, which will be staged at the ExCel Arena in London. The competition features current British champion Danny Williams and former Olympic gold medallist Audley Harrison, but Barrett insists he can take the glory.
“This is the biggest opportunity of my life but I’m going to make the most of it and win it,” said Barrett, undefeated from his eight professional contests. I’m certainly capable of winning it – I know I’ve got the tools – and this is the right time for me,” reckoned Barrett.
“It’s only three rounds so you have to work really hard and fast so I think that will suit me well. I have youth on my side and the training, sparring and preparation has been going perfectly. I’m in great condition and in absolutely brilliant shape physically and mentally. I’ve trained very hard for the last eight weeks for Prizefighter and I’m ready for this.”
Barrett is a 25/1 outsider to win the event and has a tough opening fight against former British Champion Scott Gammer. The Irishman, who hails from Galway, upsets Gammer he could meet Williams in the semi-finals. Despite the tough-looking fights, Barrett insists he relishes the challenge.
“Both sides of the draw are tough and it’ll be a tough night of boxing no matter what side you’re on,” added Barrett. If you’re good enough you’re going to get through – and I know I’m good enough,” said Barrett.
“I won five Irish titles as an amateur, a bronze medal at the world championships and two ABA titles and that amateur pedigree will help me. This is something I have to do and this will lift my career higher than ever. Hopefully if I win this it will take me to fighting for titles shortly after. I don’t want to lose my undefeated record and I don’t expect to lose it.”
Barrett, who returned to the ring in April after a near four-year absence, has boxed just eight times since turning professional in 2003. The Irishman commenced his pro career as a 13st 8lbs cruiserweight and had to withstand a heavy first-round knockdown against Marcus Lee to win his pro debut on a four-round points decision (38-37). At 15st 13lbs Barrett is the lightest of tomorrow night’s contestants.
