Gardner drops down a division for Queensbury Boxing League (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Gardner drops down a division for Queensbury Boxing League

6:10pm Tuesday 12th March 2013 in Sport

After dominating the UK’s premier boxing league last season, New Addington middleweight sensation Gareth Gardner is ready for another exciting year when he laces up the gloves for his return to action on Saturday.

The 28-year-old carpenter secured his position as the number one competitor in the Queensbury Boxing League last season after winning all five of his league appearances with some impressive displays.

But the likeable champion will face arguably his toughest assignment on Saturday, March 16, at  Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, when he drops down a division to face British light middleweight ruler Aaron Lowery in one of the biggest title clashes in the history of the competition.

But, after claiming titles in three different weight divisions during his 18-month undefeated reign inside the league, Gardner feels confident he will have all the tools necessary to add Lowery’s title to his trophy cabinet when the pair meet.

“I’m really looking forward to facing Lowery next month, and I’m very confident I’ve got the skills to beat him," said Gardner.

“I had a blinding year in 2012 and had some tough fights which did take its toll on me, but I’ve had a nice break now and feel confident and ready to continue my winning streak starting on March 16.

“I’ve known Aaron for a while now after boxing on a number of the same events, and although I’ve got a lot of respect for him and his gym, that will be all left outside the ring come fight night as I’m coming to take his title."

Also appearing alongside Gardner on the bill will be stable mate and fellow Queensbury champion Steve Orford who will make the second defence of his Southern Area Cruiserweight strap against the man nicknamed the Hammer.

Orford was last in action back in September when he defeated Bournemouth challenger Louis Kerley in an all action affair that featured as part of the league’s main event show on British Eurosport. But, Orford will now face Brighton’s big hitting Mark Smith who has promised the champion he will be facing his biggest challenge so far.

With the shows promoters promising fight fans the most talent packed line up of boxing in their history, both Gardner and Orford look set to star on another big evening of action.

For more information on the duo’s big night, log onto www.queensburyboxing.co.uk for the latest news.