Trainer’s complete faith in Crolla

THAT’S MY BOY . . . Joe Gallagher hoists Anthony Crollla on to his shoulders after the last Perez fight.

BOXING: 

ANTHONY Crolla’s trainer Joe Gallagher knows more than most what it would mean for his charge to finally achieve his world title dream in front of his Manchester fans on November 21.

Chadderton-based Crolla (28) is gearing up for his feverishly-anticipated WBA world lightweight rematch against Colombian’s Darleys Perez after the first clash between the pair was controversially ruled a majority draw.

Gallagher believes sole headliner Crolla will get over the line this time: “It’s great for Anthony to headlining in his own right this time, and he deserves to be,” said Gallagher.

“It was so close in July. I had the fight level until the end of the 10th round, but then Darleys was deducted the two points so we all thought he’d nicked it. The decision didn’t go his way, so as far as I’m concerned it’s up to Anthony to rip that title away from Perez this time.

“People are saying Perez is a better fighter now, but so is Anthony. All the boxes are ticked. We can’t be getting the judges involved this time, and I don’t think they will be needed.”

Crolla’s preparations have been tweaked for the rematch against the tough-as-teak Colombian, and the man himself and his trainer are well aware of the size of the task that awaits.

“Anthony’s training has been different so far this time around,” said Gallagher. “It will continue to be that way in the final few weeks of camp. Anthony and I know full well what’s required this time round.”