Bristol boxing: Courtney Fry faces Gbenga challenge

Courtney Fry attempts to put his faltering boxing career back on track when he clashes with African danger-man Michael Gbenga in an international light heavyweight contest in Bristol next week.

Formerly managed by local promoter Chris Sanigar, Liverpool-based Fry has thrown in his lot with the Bristol Fight Factory in a bid to revive his fortunes.

And he hopes victory over Gbenga on Jon Feld's promotion at Bristol's Thistle Hotel on Friday, April 17 will help him beat a path to the door of Commonwealth champion Nathan Cleverley.

"This is a huge opportunity for Courtney," said Fight Factory spokesman Dean Cooper, who is pushing for the scheduled eight-rounder against Gbenga to be upgraded to Commonwealth title eliminator status.

"If Courtney wins and looks good, there is a chance he will land a shot at Cleverley.

"He's only had three fights in two years and is looking to get back on track. An international contest against an opponent of Gbenga's ability is just what is needed at this stage."

The Thistle undercard features Bristol's Dan Stewart, who meets Darryl Still in a welterweight contest scheduled for six three-minute rounds. Victory could pave the way for Stewart to box for the Celtic title later in the year.

Former England international Jamie Speight, who now boxes out of the Fight Factory, makes his professional bow in a super featherweight contest against fellow debutant Peter Barnett.