Boxing: Skelton still dreaming of world glory

Jan 21 2008 Western Mail

MATT SKELTON left Dusseldorf insisting he can still fulfil his ambition of winning a version of the world heavyweight title despite his comprehensive points defeat to WBA champion Ruslan Chagaev.

The Bedford 40-year-old produced arguably the best performance of his career, but was still no match for the clever Uzbek, who triumphed 117-110, 117-111, 117-111 on the judges’ cards.

Skelton, who only turned professional six years ago and had no amateur experience, says merely fighting for a title once held by the likes of Muhammad Ali and Rocky Marciano will never be enough.

“Unfortunately, I missed the top of the mountain. I was there looking at it and I wanted to reach the pinnacle. I wanted it so much and I’m gutted I didn’t make it,” he said.

“People tell me I’ve achieved a lot in six years, but it doesn’t matter if a million people tap me on the back and say well done, because I lost the fight. I’ve got to hold my head up and carry on.

“The dream hasn’t died. Hopefully I can get another title shot. I’ve got to sit down and discuss it and I won’t do anything rash. People are looking at it because of my age, but I’ve got no intention of giving up.”

Skelton, weighing in just under two stones heavier than his opponent, used his physical bulk and spoiling tactics from the start and clearly managed to unsettle a champion who never really found top gear.

But, despite taking an early points lead, Skelton’s punches frequently failed to find their target, while Chagaev, who boasts the best left-hand counter-punch in the business, relentlessly struck home on the side of the Briton’s face.

In beating Russian giant Nikolai Valuev to claim the title last year, Chagaev had already proved adept at overcoming bigger men, and Skelton lacked the skill to turn the fight back in his favour.