Boxing: Steve Simmons has rethink after simmering

Published on Saturday 12 December 2009 11:51

LEITH Victoria boxer Steve Simmons has retracted his pledge never to fight in Scotland again after losing to Swede Erik Skoglund, writes BRIAN DONALD.

Heavyweight ace Simmons said: "I was wrong to say that I'd never box in Scotland with Scottish ring judges – that was just an over-emotional response to losing to Skoglund."

Simmons was beaten by a single point in the top-of the bill clash at Leith Victoria's Christmas show last weekend. He was furious afterwards but has since been swayed by seeing the reaction of the crowd when watching the bout again on video.

Simmons added: "The crowd gave us both a standing ovation. It would not be fair on such appreciative fans who were so generous with their applause for me to petulantly refuse to box for them again in future bouts in Edinburgh."

And Simmons has now set his sights on a rematch with the Swede.

Meanwhile, Queensferry Boxing Club coach Mark Geraghty has appealed for a coach to join him after losing his previous aide, Eric Brown, to the Lochend club.

He said: "We are being swamped by people wanting to box for us. I am struggling to cope."

The club is the home to established champions Chris McHale and Lewis Benson.

Anyone interested can contact Geraghty on 07886 656950.