Boxing
I went 15 months without a fight as world title mandatory but now I can become champion on huge Egypt show
Usyk vs. Verhoeven: Exclusively on DAZN - Saturday
Jack Catterall is hoping to make up for lost time when he looks to become WBA champion at 147lbs against Shakhram Giyasov this weekend in Egypt.
The Chorley man will be hoping he can steal the show on a marquee show headlined by Oleksandr Usyk’s world title defence against Rico Verhoeven in the shadows of the Pyramids of Giza, live on DAZN PPV and Ultimate Tier.
For Catterall, the fight represents the reward for years of hard work and sacrifice when it sometimes looked like his efforts would not be rewarded.
After defeating Ohara Davies in 2018, a fight that brought a lofty WBO ranking, Catterall would have to remain patient for his shot at glory and that finally came four years later when was he controversially defeated by Josh Taylor.
DAZN FACE OFF: Usyk vs. Verhoeven
Watch dramatic clash here
Since that setback, Catterall has remained in the world title picture, and he has since picked up wins over Taylor and Regis Prograis on his push towards his fight with Giyasov. Despite being on the verge of fulfilling a longtime dream, Catterall has admitted some frustration regarding that point in his career.
“There was a point where I was mandatory challenger for the WBO and it almost went on for three years,” said Catterall when speaking to DAZN News .
“I couldn't get a fight no matter how hard I tried. I stayed in the gym. Before the Taylor fight, I think it was something like 15 months without a fight, but there wasn’t a time that wasn't in the gym.”
Catterall’s perseverance now has him on one of the year’s biggest shows and success against Giyasov can open the doors for some of the biggest fights in boxing against the likes of Conor Benn, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez.
Seeing his career go full circle has brought great satisfaction to the former world title challenger and with the eyes of the world set be on Egypt on Saturday night, Catterall is not taking any chances and is intent he will put on a show.
“It’s great to be in Egypt. I’m one of those guys who will just roll with it and if Eddie [Hearn] has something planned like going to the ring on a camel, then I’m going to ride that camel better than anyone else.
“This is a massive fight for me. I’ve been vocal saying I will fight all the top guys. I want to be involved in big fights, and this is one of them.
“He’s a great fighter but I don't think he’s had that breakout performance where you look at him and think he’s unbelievable.
"He’s gonna be hungry and motivated just like I am and it’s a big opportunity for us both. I’m expecting the best of him, but the best of me will be too good for him.”
Watch Usyk vs Verhoeven only on DAZN
Oleksandr Usyk puts his unbeaten record on the line against Rico Verhoeven this Saturday, May 23, in front of the Egyptian pyramids, live and exclusive on DAZN. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Zayas vs. Ennis (June 27) PPV, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.
