After being unable to match Kieran Farrell for a number of title opportunities in the new season, promoter Dave Coldwell has made a bold move by installing his Central Area lightweight champion into October’s Prizefighter tournament. Taking place at Liverpool’s atmospheric Olympia venue, the competition boasts a number of high-profile names and Coldwell is hopeful that Farrell can make his mark.

“This is one of the most competitive line-ups I’ve seen for Prizefighter and it’s one that I know Kieran can excel in,” predicted Coldwell. “We made several offers to plenty of fighters to face Kieran in October but nothing concrete was agreed so we got on the phone to Eddie [Hearn] and he was happy to have Kieran in the tournament. This is the chance for Kieran to make a name for himself in front of a lively crowd and on Sky TV and I know he has the desire to grab the opportunity with both hands. Kieran’s not going there to make up the numbers; he’s going there to win the whole thing.”

In a field featuring former British champions Derry Mathews and Gary Sykes, this version of Prizefighter contains gloried names as well as a cluster of upcoming prospects. Big things have been predicted for Liverpool pair Nathan Brough and Stephen Jennings whilst local scrapper Terry Needham and Huddersfield’s Liam Patrick Walsh will certainly provide excitement. Possessing the potential to be the most dramatic exciting Prizefighter yet, who does Coldwell think is the man to beat?

“Derry Mathews should start as favourite but the winner could come from anywhere because it’s by far one of the most competitive lists I’ve seen. Stephen Jennings was a name I had in mind for a possible fight with Kieran so the two of them might have a dress rehearsal for a future title clash and Gary Sykes is another high class boxer. There’s no one past their prime and all are so hungry for success so whoever wins it can expect to go onto bigger things.”