Cleverly eager for first defence

Nathan Cleverly is unbeaten in his 13-fight career

Nathan Cleverly will make the first defence of his Commonwealth light-heavyweight title next month in Widnes against an as yet to be named opponent.

It will be a welcome return to the north west for the unbeaten 21-year-old, who has a perfect 13-0 record.

Cleverly won his crown in Liverpool last month, outpointing the experienced Tony Oakey over a bruising 12 rounds.

"It was a great feeling to win the title, but this is just the start," said Cleverly.

"Defeating Oakey made me realise how far I can go in this sport.

"I'll be concentrating 100% on beating whoever I face on December the 12th, but next year I want British champion Dean Francis, then European and world honours."

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Chief support at the Kingsway Sports Centre sees a mouth-watering English light-middleweight title clash between Andrew Facey and Matthew Hall.

Champion Facey is an experienced and awkward member of Brendan Ingle's Wincobank stable, while big-punching Hall is one of the most exciting prospects in the country.

For the first time all three members of the Smith boxing dynasty feature on a card for the first time - former English middleweight champion Paul, and younger brothers Callum and Stephen.

They will be joined by top prospect Anthony Crolla and Liverpudlian duo Tony Bellew and Joe Selkirk.