May date for Crolla defence

Photo: Lawrence Lustig

ANTHONY Crolla . . . first title defence against Ismael Barroso.

ANTHONY Crolla will defend his WBA World Lightweight title against Ismael Barroso at the Manchester Arena on May 7.

Chadderton-baded Crolla won the belt in stunning style at the vaunted Manchester venue in November, beating Darleys Perez in the fifth round of their rematch for the Colombian’s title.

It capped a fairytale comeback from the life-threatening injuries he suffered in December 2014 when confronting burglars at his neighbour’s home, followed by first fight with Perez’s end in a controversial draw in July.

Crolla was present at the O2 when Barroso knocked out Kevin Mitchell in December, effectively ending the career of the popular Londoner in their clash for the interim title.

It was the 18th win inside the distance from 19 victories for the unbeaten 33 year old, and he poses a serious early threat to Crolla’s reign.

But “Million Dollar” says there was no way he was going to avoid a clash with the dangerous mandatory challenger: “I’m under no illusion this is a tough task, but there was no way I was not going to take the fight,” said Crolla.

“I enjoyed a break since winning the title, but I have been in the gym for a while already and I am in a good place.

“People said I was going to duck him, but if I don't fight him I lose my belt. Of course I am going to fight him, I've worked too hard to become world champion to give it away.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn said: “Anthony Crolla is jumping straight in with a cracking first defence against Barroso.

“Barroso is one of the most dangerous fighters in the business, but Anthony continues to improve and right now I believe he is the man at 135lbs — and he’ll prove it on May 7.”