Chloe Watson (6-0) and Justine Lallemand (9-2-1) had to be pulled apart when they faced-off at today's press conference, ahead of their title clash live and free-to-air on Channel 5. The flyweight foes collide on Friday night for the vacant European crown, with the action from the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton, England, live at 10pm. The Wasserman Boxing show also includes the heavyweight return of Nathan Gorman, as well as the pro debut of ten-time national amateur champion Dan Toward and the next outing of featherweight Codie Smith. [Roman Fury has been forced to withdraw from Friday's show through illness. ]. But it was Watson and Lallemand who caused the biggest stir at the press conference in Bolton today, with the pair needing to be separated after an intense stare-down, that was fuelled by the exchange of big pre-fight predictions.
Lallemand is from France. She challenged Martina Bernile for the Euro title last year and lost by split decision. That tile is now vacant. Lallemand, said: "I am here for the win and I will win inside the distance - I am going for the knockout. She is a good fighter but she has never seen a fighter like me before!"
Watson, who is coached by Ricky Hatton, replied: "We will see on Friday night. I've had a lot of good fights already as a pro, and a lot of good fights as an amateur and so I believe she has never seen anyone like Chloe Watson. I am feeling the strongest and the fittest I have ever felt for a fight. This will be a night to remember."
Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: "Chloe is in against a very, very tough opponent, but she can become the first British female to win the European flyweight title on Friday night, live and free on Channel 5. The female side of the sport is growing and growing and growing, and this is just the beginning for Chloe. Katie Taylor remains the flag bearer but you can't pick another champion, challenger or prospect in female boxing who has the number of viewing figures Chloe has had at this stage of her career. We [Sauerland Event] guided Cecilia Braekhus to winning all of the world titles and we feel we can do the same with the pride of Birkenhead, Chloe Watson."
