IBO sanction title fight at TSB Stadium

Taranaki's Sam "The Terror" Rapira is back in the ring next month in an attempt to secure a professional title.

Boxing International Body (IBO) have agreed to sanction a title fight for their vacant Light Heavyweight title at the TSB Stadium on Saturday, April 18.

Sam says the opportunity to host the title fight at home in New Plymouth means a lot to him.

"I am so excited for this opportunity to fight for an IBO title. Opportunities like these don't come around every day, so I am grabbing it with both hands."

Sam adds that fighters like himself have worked hard to get Taranaki on the map in terms of boxing, "and I feel securing this is recognition for our strong local support for the sport".

Sam says he has had a tough few months since losing his New Zealand title in October.

"I have done some soul searching and can see clearly now what I want, and what I need to do to get it. It will be a hard road ahead but I am up for it."

Sam says the IBO title has been held by top Australian boxer Danny Green which shows the calibre of previous title holders.

"Winning this title will open the door for me to set up other fights, get my name out there more and create more opportunities."

Sam is boxing Australian Dean Purdon over 10 rounds and the show involves an eight fight card featuring an exciting night of boxing with three professional fights and five corporate matchups with the Title Challenge as the main event.

There is a great undercard, says Sam. It features Coastal's James Langton who is building a great record in the Heavyweight division fighting Aucklander Eden McGrath. Also featuring is 'Smoking' Joe Blackbourn, "who I think is the best kept secret in New Zealand boxing", he added.

Joe is fighting Marlin Toby from Queensland.

"I am really excited to have Joe on the card and he will fight in the Super Middleweight division. We go a long way back from our amateur days, and I can't wait for fans in Taranaki to see this man's talent."

Sam says the five corporate fights will also add excitement with the full card to be announced next week.

"The corporate fighters have been fantastic and are training really hard so there will be some full on matchups and I really think people are going to love this show."

Corporate tables will be available for companies and individuals who want to make a fun night of it. These can be booked by contacting Box Office Boxing in New Plymouth. Sam says organisers were committed to keeping ticket prices affordable and will start from just $24.50 for adults and $15 for students. Tickets are on sale now.