Crolla 'deserves another title shot'

Photo: Bradley Ormesher

Anthony Crolla

ANTHONY Crolla's big-time promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that a rematch with Venezualan hard-man Jorge Linares will almost certainly take place - in Manchester - in February or March next year.

Chadderton-based Crolla (29) turned in a herculean effort against Linares at a rocking Arena, but eventually lost a unanimous judges' points decision when the WBC and WBA Diamond title were on the line, and the prestigious Ring Magazine belt, which is awarded to the acknowledged best fighter on the planet in a given division.

After watching lightweight star Crolla dramatically lose his own WBA belt in what was later deemed a 'Fight of the Year' contender, Matchroom Boxing chief Hearn said: "I know Anthony was gutted after losing his title, but he'll come back better for this whole experience and this fight will happen again, in Manchester.

"It will be an even bigger fight next time, and that's because the best always want to fight the best.

"That's what we saw on Saturday so Anthony deserves another shot."