Todd is disappointed but not downhearted at title defeat

JAMES Todd insists he will become a stronger fighter after losing his chance to become a world champion.

The Swansea boxer was stopped in four rounds by Mohammed Kayongo in America last weekend as the Ugandan claimed the WBF welterweight title.

Todd, who was aiming to follow in the footsteps of Swansea's former WBO cruiserweight king Enzo Maccarinelli, insists he won't allow this setback to derail his career.

Quite the opposite, in fact, with the 21-year-old pointing to his experience as part of a vital learning curve in his young career.

Todd's fight took place at Minnesota's National Guard Armory arena, with a vocal crowd ensuring a rowdy night for the competitors.

Progress

And Todd believes it is something that can help him progress in his career.

"It was disappointing to lose, but I have to look at the overall picture," said Todd, who was also fighting for the Minnesota State title.

"This was only the fifth fight I've had since turning pro, so maybe it was a fight that came too soon.

"But you can't give up the opportunity of becoming a world champion — that is what you are in boxing for.

"I realise that I have to get a number of fights under my belt and build myself up before fighting for another title.

"But the whole experience provided plenty of positives for me — the atmosphere, the build-up, the fight itself.

"It hasn't killed my spirits at all. People may look at my record and think I'm a journeyman, but I'll change my record pretty quickly."

Attention

Despite his defeat, Todd still managed to grab the attention of the promoters who staged his title shot.

Seconds Out Promotions were impressed by Todd and are likely to offer him a fight in February.

For now, though, Todd has swapped his training camp in California for his home city as he recharges his batteries.

"It's great to be back home and see my family and friends," he said.

"I've got a chance to rest and relax a little, which will do me good.

"I'm likely to be fighting again in February, so I'll be in contact with my coach in America (John Tandy) and keep fit in the meantime.

"I may have lost two fights now, but this isn't the end of the road for my career.

"As far as I'm concerned, it's only just started."

Meanwhile, Cross Hands light-heavyweight Adam Wilcox suffered his 10th pro defeat last Sunday.

Wilcox, 30, lost a points decision during his six-round bout with Carl Wild at the Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield.

And Swansea middleweight Chris Brophy is in action tonight.

The 30-year-old, who has won only three of his 42 bouts, faces unbeaten Wolverhampton fighter Ben Wilkes at the Tower Ballroom in Birmingham.

chris.barney@swwmedia.co.uk