Walsall's Martin Gethin lastnight suffered a shock defeat in what should of been a routine 'back to winning ways' four rounder. Gethin was beaten by capable journeyman Chris Long on a three fight bill held at Birmingham's Holiday Inn and promoted by Pat Cowdell.Its a big blow for Lightweight Gethin who's last two fights have also ended in defeat, albeit at a much higher level (an English title challenge to Scott Lawton last December and a British title eliminator to John Watson in March). The defeat will certainly knock Gethin who was just underneath the British title contention set down the pecking order. Gethin's record now stands at 15-3-1.
Gethin's trainer Errol Johnson was furious at the decision, claiming that referee Shaun Messer scored the fight all wrong and that he'd counted a slip as a knockdown. Journalists at ringside seemed to agree with Johnson that although Gethin didn't box particurlarly well he still won the fight. The defeat could prove very costly for Gethin as Johnson had him lined up for a shot at the Commonwealth title.
Birmingham Featherweight Del Rogers also beat Telford's Shaun Walton on points over six, whilst Callum Archer also from Birmingham outpointed Stourbridge's Kevin McCauley over eight.
