At the 32nd annual British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) Awards, another dinner ceremony took place to celebrate a glittering year of boxing. The sold out event took place on September 25th at the Novotel Hotel in Hammersmith, London, which saw 575 people in attendance.
Kell Brook won the coveted Boxer of the Year trophy, but was unable to attend due to training commitments in Spain for his looming clash with Diego Chaves. Matchroom Boxing chief Eddie Hearn accepted the award on his behalf.
James DeGale, Carl Frampton, Amir Khan, Jamie McDonnell, Lee Selby and Scott Quigg were also on the shortlist for the prize. Every name here holds a world title in their respective divisions, which shows just how strong British boxing is right now.
Jorge Linares picked up the award for Overseas Boxer of the Year. The Venezuelan defended his WBC Lightweight title in an unforgettable encounter with Kevin Mitchell in May. Though the fight was also shortlisted for Contest of the Year, it came up short to the knockdowns-galore-thriller between Dave Ryan and John Wayne Hibbert.
Anthony Crolla won the Achievement Award after the Mancunian managed to almost topple Lightweight champ Darleys Perez shortly after sustaining hospitalizing injuries from a burglary attack. His trainer Joe Gallagher also picked up the Trainer of the Year award.
In other accolades, John Conteh, the former Light Heavyweight champ, took home the Special Recognition award. Also, Chris Sanigar, who helped guide Lee Selby to capturing the IBF Featherweight title, won the Sir Henry Cooper Services to Boxing trophy.
And finally, the Dennie Mancini award, which honors Commonwealth champion excellence, went to Ovill McKenzie. The Cruiserweight will be fighting Victor Ramirez for the WBC strap on Friday.
What are your thoughts on the award winners? Did Kell Brook deserve to beat the other contenders for Fighter of the Year? Chime in with your take!
Mark Phillips is the Head Staff Writer/Assistant Editor at BoxingBase.com, and provides worldwide news, coverage and analysis – he can be reached via our Contact Page.
