On July 18th, it seemed like Anthony Crolla was about to become another one of boxing’s ‘Cinderella Men’. Crolla was a heavy underdog going in who hadn’t long recovered from an (outside the ring) assault which left him severely injured and hospitalized.
But the gates to world glory were to remain closed that night. Despite Crolla appearing to outbox WBA champion, Darleys Perez, who was docked two points along the way, the scorecards told a different story.
Four months later, Crolla still insists Manchester will have another world champion. And with Crolla vs Perez II set to unfold on Saturday night, Crolla’s dreams could soon become a reality.
“I was absolutely gutted,” Crolla told The Ring, speaking of July’s outcome. “I was so close to achieving the dream I’ve had since I was a boy and then it was snatched away from me. I thought, like everyone else, that I’d done enough but that’s boxing and there’s no point dwelling on it.
“I was made up when [Matchroom Boxing chief] Eddie [Hearn] got me the rematch in Manchester and that’s what I’m focusing on now. I thought there was a chance that all the controversy would get me another shot but you never know in boxing because politics can get in the way. I’m so grateful to the WBA for granting me a return fight and I’ll make the most of it.”
Though Crolla assured he is now stronger, faster, and will overcome Perez, he isn’t overlooking his opponent’s own impressive repertoire.
“In terms of positives, Perez is a good power-puncher; he’s nice and sharp on the counter and gets good leverage on his shots,” Crolla said. “I don’t want to give too much away but he does like to fight at his own pace and it’s important to take him out of his comfort zone.
“I’m quicker, boxing better and I’m lifting more when it comes to strength work. I’m also posting faster times on the track and I feel like a better athlete. … I have a lot of respect for him and I don’t expect the same fighter I faced in July but everyone should be expecting better from me this time around.”
And the 29-year-old couldn’t be in better company during training it would seem. Working out alongside the likes of Callum Smith, who recently scored an electrifying 1st round knockout of Rocky Fielding, has elevated Crolla’s motivation to the ceiling.
“The gym is absolutely buzzing and I’ve been in the corner with [trainer] Joe [Gallagher] for all of those fights, which makes me even hungrier. Seeing Callum [Smith] put on a career-best performance and Liam [Smith] win a world title inspires me to do the same and there’s a real team spirit between us.”
How do you see Anthony Crolla vs Darleys Perez II unfolding at the weekend, boxing fans? Will the hearts of Manchester be broken for a second time? Or will the man known as ‘Million Dollar’ finally fulfil his world title ambitions?
