By Akeem Lawal
The undefeated, former African boxing champion and Prize Fighter winner has been given the opportunity to fight for this prestige’s title as the main support to Billy Joe Saunders, who headlines the show and is defending his world title live on BTSports.
Corcoran, 16-1 7 KOs, known as the ‘Hellraiser’ for his ferocious all-action style, recently moved down to welterweight after losing out in an eleven round thriller for Liam Williams’ super-welterweight Lonsdale belt in July 2016.
Should Ekundayo (12-0) overcome this challenge he will be catapulted high into the WBO world rankings, with a world title shot in sight.
‘The Natural’ as fondly called, Ekundayo, 34, is eager to prove himself again on the big stage and looking to make a statement against Corcoran.
“Everyone in boxing rates Gary as a top fighter,” said Ekundayo. “He is a tough tough man and will be in my face all night. This is a big test for me but I will be prepared for whatever he brings on the night. If I beat Gary I will get the respect I deserve in the boxing circuit.
“We have shared a lot of rounds in the gym but we all know there is a huge difference between sparring and fighting under the lights. Gary is as ferocious as they come but I’m going to give it my all to get the win and the belt,” said the Africa Boxing Union champion ahead of the fight.
“The Natural” recently attracted major media attention in Nigeria, and across Africa, as world Heavyweight Champion, Anthony Joshua, recorded a special message requesting that all Nigerians get behind Larry in his forthcoming title fight.
Speaking from his training base in London U.K, Ekundayo, who proudly wears the green and white of Nigeria into battle, said “I would really likely to thank my management team, MTK, for arranging this title shot and for Frank Warren for giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills in front of a global audience.”
Ekundayo represents the country’s best opportunity of delivering sporting success in 2017 for those who wear the Nigerian colours. He is thrilled to have the whole nation behind him, saying “They have recently passed a bill in the Nigerian National Assembly to help support me and help bring big time boxing back to Nigeria, if we as fighters are supported correctly we can rule the world of boxing!”
Larry, and fellow elite level boxer, Olusegun Ajose, were recently blessed by Ooni of Ife, HRM, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II with further promise of support, not only for the boxers but for all Nigerians in the Diaspora seeking to bring glory to their fatherland. His Royal Majesty the Ooni of Ife had earlier urged all Nigerians in the UK and Europe to attend the boxing event to give maximum support to Larry in his forthcoming bout.
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