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Home » Exclusive: UK boxers given European title hope despite Brexit

Exclusive: UK boxers given European title hope despite Brexit

A UK referendum to leave the European Union, labelled Brexit, had meant uncertainty for British fighters aiming to go down the traditional route of British, Commonwealth and European championships.

When contacted about the situation, which comes to a head due to announced plans in 2019, the EBU stated the more prestigious version of their two belts may still be in the offing for UK competitors.

“All the British fighters have a full right to dispute the EBU title,” European Boxing Union General Secretary Enza Jacoponi exclusively told World Boxing News.

“The fact is British boxers are European, so the EBU title is still open to them.”

On what Brexit could ultimately mean for boxers from United Kingdom shores, Jacoponi added: “Potentially, it could the European Union title (EU) that will not be possible to dispute.”

Britain boasts just one European champion on the list as of this week following victory by Sam Eggington over the weekend. ‘The Savage’ defeated Spain’s Ceferino Rodriguez via tenth round knockout and is on course for a first defence during the summer.

Plenty of today’s big name British names have previously held the EBU title when forging their own way to world title glory.

The likes of James DeGale, Jamie McDonnell, Tony Bellew, Lee Selby, Nathan Cleverly, Lee Haskins and Billy Joe Saunders all held the coveted blue strap prior to claiming world honours and this could now continue for prospects in the future.

A final decision will be confirmed once Britain finally leaves the EU, which is planned to take place in at least two years’ time.

Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay