Bruiser Defending Cruiser in Sydney
Ryan Rozicki to defend WBA-NABA title against Miller in Sydney
SYDNEY, N.S. — Ryan (The Bruiser) Rozicki will defend his WBA-NABA Canadian cruiserweight title when he faces American Shawn Miller in Cape Breton in May.
Rozicki will enter the fight with an undefeated record of 9-0, his most recently victory coming against Hungarian Laszlo Penzes (10-4-0) last weekend in Hamilton, Ont.
As for Miller, the Tory, N.Y., native will be Rozicki's stiffest opponent, bringing a wealth of international experience to the fight including a trio of WBF world title fights. His last fight came on Oct. 12, 2018, defeating Dennis Morris by unanimous decision.
"Back in the day, Americans could fight for the Canadian title (and) it was up to the national champion to prevent that belt from leaving," said Rozicki in a press release.
"I'll defend my title against anyone. I don't care where you're from. Miller is a tough guy, but he's never seen anything like me before — I hit harder and fight harder in front of my hometown fans."
The highly anticipated fight will take place on May 18, almost one year to the date Rozicki captured the North American cruiserweight title, knocking out Victor Hugo Correa of Mexico at Centre 200 in Sydney. Start time for the event, presented by Three Lions Promotions, is 6 p.m.
After starting his career in the Maritimes, Rozicki has become a sensation in Ontario, working his way through domestic and international opponents, all by way of knockout.
In October, Rozicki became the NABA Canadian cruiserweight champion when he beat Abokan Bokpe, who at the time was undefeated, to win the vacant title.
"I know fighting at home means a lot to Ryan," said Daniel Otter, Three Lions Promotions promoter. "It's not easy for him to be away (and) to fight away – this is a big step for him.
"Miller is no joke. This guy has travelled the world and he takes on all comers."
The undercard will include Pictou County's Brody Blair (4-0-0, 8Kos), unified Canadian champion Kevin Higson (16-2-0, 1Kos) and undefeated brothers Jessie (12-0-2, 8Kos) and Bradley Wilcox (7-0-0, 4Kos). Other fighters were not announced as of press time.
Ticket information was not provided at press time, however proceeds from the event will benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Cape Breton and the Whitney Pier Youth Club.
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