Bermondsey’s Ted Cheeseman on a high after enjoying big night against Carson Jones
By Richard Cawley
Thirteen proved to be a lucky number for Ted Cheeseman as he outpointed American hard nut Carson Jones at Greenwich’s 02 Arena on Saturday.
The Bermondsey super-welterweight claimed the WBA international title with a wide verdict on the scorecards.
Cheeseman improved his perfect fight record to 13-0 with scorecards of 100-89 and 99-91 (twice). But that big winning margin did not tell the full story as Jones kept up his reputation for being a live opponent.
On a number of occasions the pair exchanged blows and the South London prospect sported swelling and bruising under his right eye.
But Cheeseman’s fitness and punch selection saw him take control in the second half of the contest.
Jones, who could not win the vacant title after weighing in four pounds over the limit, was finally penalised for low blows in the ninth round as he got a point deducted.
“He’s a tough man – a bully,” said Cheeseman, 22. “I stuck in there for the first few rounds to outman him and wear him down a bit. Once I got past the first couple of rounds I was using my strength and got on my boxing. I boxed his head off.
“He had little spells, but he is a tough fighter. I enjoyed myself in there.
“I probably could’ve made it a bit easier earlier on but I wanted to show everyone I’m tough – that I can take a shot and stay in there. I showed a bit of grit, determination and a bit of boxing.
“I love fighting. I love the buzz. When you walk out there and there is hardly anyone out there then you think ‘what’s it all about?’ When it is rammed and buzzing you want to put a show on. It’s about having people screaming, singing your name or getting worried – that’s what I love.
“I know I’ll have some great nights in boxing if I carry on like this.”
Cheeseman’s ideal opponent is former European champion Sam Eggington (21-4). The Birmingham boxer, 24, lost the belt on a split decision to Mohamed Mimoune in October and is scheduled to feature at Sheffield Arena on March 3.
“Eggington would be a great fight but we are both from the same [promotional] stable so that might not happen,” said Cheeseman. “There are a lot of big fights out there – it is all about risk and reward.
“I’ve got a good management team and coach. If they accept it then I’m going to take it. I’m not about turning down fights. As soon as Carson Jones’ name was mentioned I wanted it because I knew it would put me on the map.
“As much as I want to win world titles I don’t want to be skint. I want to get a comfortable life from the sport.
“I’m going on holiday for a week now and then we’re going straight into a two-week training camp in LA. I’m looking forward to that and negotiating my next big fight.”