Bradford's Bobby Vanzie had to climb off the canvas twice to retain his Commonwealth lightweight title at the Everton Sports Centre in Liverpool last night. The 26-year-old was floored by African challenger Laatekwei Hammond in both the fourth and seventh rounds. But Vanzie rallied to knock down his opponent early in the eighth and the fight was stopped after the challenger still looked shaken when rising to his feet.
Vanzie, who took his record to 20 wins and one draw, said, "I caught him with my right hook and I know I've got the power. I can punch when I'm in danger and I managed to bring it out of the bag." Of his own knockdowns, Vanzie added, "The first was genuine because the guy had power and we knew that. The second was just a bustle and he didn't catch me, but the first was definitely valid."
Filed by Pat Nugent
