Lewisham’s Dan Azeez: I’m being left out of the mix for big domestic fights

Dan Azeez voiced his frustration at a lack of more meaningful domestic bouts after retaining his English light-heavyweight title last night.

The 31-year-old from Lewisham won a split decision over Ricky Summers in Bolton to move his record to 13-0.

“My grit and hunger [were the difference],” said Azeez. “Ricky was tough and he is a good operator. He hit me with some good shots.

“I’m trying to call out all these boys at the top – the British and Commonwealth title-holders. I’m trying to get in the mix. These are the kind of fights I need.

“I’m getting these learning fights but I feel I’m ready to step it up now and that’s what I want to do. Hopefully MTK can push me in the right direction and get me these fights.

“I see Liam Conroy and Hosea Burton are fighting in a final eliminator. That [his one against Summers] could’ve been a final eliminator for the British title.

“I’m not fed up but I want to start getting those fights. If I want to be on those bigger stages I have no choice but to step it up each time. Bring them all on. The next domestic fighter I fight I really want to crush them, because I’m getting left out of the mix. I feel like I’m doing a decent enough job to get myself in that mix.”

Crystal Palace’s Craigh Richards, who holds the domestic strap, challenges WBA world champion Dmitry Bivol on May 1.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD