Hearn didn’t follow up his interest in Bowen after watching him and without television backing, the 24 year old from Leicestershire has secured a shot at the British title.
Manager/promoter Carl Greaves stages Bowen’s fight with Maxi Hughes for the vacant belt at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on Saturday, April 14.
Greaves has invested heavily in Bowen’s career since he turned over three years ago and admitted: “I’m a bit disappointed Eddie Hearn hasn’t jumped on him.
“Frank Warren wasn’t really an option because he’s got so many super featherweights, but Eddie has seen Sam and I’m surprised he didn’t offer him a deal.
“Eddie was saying he was glad he didn’t miss out on Lewis Ritson after he beat Joe Murray (to keep the British lightweight title) the other day.
“Ritson was a small-hall fighter with a TV style – and Sam is the same.
“It’s been hard without TV, but we’ve got Sam there now.”
Bowen has powered to 12 straight wins – seven inside two rounds – and jumps up from six-round level to fight a seasoned championship operator who is making his second attempt to win the British 9st 4lbs belt.
Bowen has missed out on fighting for Midlands Area and English honours and even British-title eliminators because opponents have pulled out and he said: “It’s been annoying, but if I get the British title, that should give people a reason to fight me.”
Tickets for the show in Leicester are available from 07709 451337.
