Rowsell can’t wait for Hatton clash

By Paul Upham: Australian Justin “The Cowboy” Rowsell is almost jumping out of his skin in anticipation of his title clash with WBU light-welterweight champion Ricky Hatton (pictured left) on October 27 in Manchester. After a promising start to his career, the last two years have been nothing but stop start for Rowsell since his loss to WBC No.3 lightweight Lovemore Ndou in December 1998.
“We have known about it for a week, but nothing was in concrete until last night,” said Rowsell, 31-1-2 (23). “Hatton’s an aggressive type of guy with a high work-rate. My good friend Robbie Peden who is out here in Australia told me the same, but felt he could be outboxed. He is aggressive, comes forward and is undefeated so he can’t be too bad.”

The older brother of Australian and PABA cruiserweight champion Danny Rowsell, Justin is determined to make the most of this opportunity and get his career back on track against Hatton, who turns 23 this week.

“It’s a very big opportunity. I’ve only had 12 rounds in the last three years, but I know I’ll be fit. Against a guy who has a good work-rate, I’ll have to make every punch count and do everything right.”

The 29-year-old Rowsell will be accompanied to Great Britain by trainer Jeff Fenech and his personal fitness trainer Bull Parker. “I haven’t had much direction in the last two years to be truthful, contemplating retirement and waiting for fights and having them fall through. This is something that has grabbed my attention straight away and a chance to get back up there quick,” said Rowsell.

“There is a lot more motivation. A little bit more zip there. I’ve been in training on and off for seven months. I just had a little break from sparring, so it’s perfect, I’m nice and fresh now.”


Paul Upham
Contributing Editor