Denzel Bentley confesses that he sometimes struggles to find motivation when facing a fight that is anticipated to be in his favor.
Heaney’s underdog story had many expecting Bentley to defend his British middleweight title against him in November. However, distractions, or what he refers to as “outside noise,” have the ability to enter his mind and divert his focus from the task at hand.
At the Manchester Arena, the main event witnessed a succession of victorious performances by Nick Ball, Liam Davies, Harry Scarff, Nathaniel Collins, and Solomon Dacres. However, it was Heaney who delivered the most astonishing moment of the night and the entire year. Against all odds, he relentlessly attacked Bentley and ultimately earned a well-deserved decision, claiming the prestigious Lonsdale belt.
Bentley, 18-3-1 (15 KOs), did not want to offer excuses when he spoke to Boxing News several weeks after the loss but believed his wife’s pregnancy and the premature birth of his first child did affect his preparations.
At the time he said, “I didn’t want to say that on the night because it would seem like I’m making excuses. I wanted Heaney to enjoy his win. It’s still not excuses but it’s what was going on and I decided to get in the ring. I’ve got to deal with the outcome.”
On Saturday night (May 11), Bentley will be going up against Danny Dignum, a middleweight boxer from Essex with a record of 16-1-1 (9 KOs). This fight comes four months after their previous bout. Two years ago, both Bentley and Dignum faced off against Zhanibek Alimkhanuly, known for his “Qazaq Style,” in Las Vegas. Dignum struggled and only lasted two rounds in their encounter in May 2022, while Bentley managed to go the distance, showcasing his potential as a world title contender at the time.
Bentley laughed, questioning, “What will be my excuse if I don’t win the next fight?”
The 29-year-old initially spoke to BN about his experience last week with Steel Warriors, an anti-knife crime charity, but kindly gave up more time to talk about the Dignum fight which headlines the Saturday fight night on TNT Sports.
He stated that he must be sharp and focused.
“If I fail to deliver in the next bout, I should reconsider my presence in the ring. However, I have a positive outlook this time around. Danny Dignum is a formidable opponent, in my opinion even better than Nathan [Heaney]. I am eagerly anticipating making a strong statement and reclaiming the position I held before that unfortunate defeat. Allowing Nathan to snatch that from me was a painful experience. I am well acquainted with that sensation and I am determined to avoid it at all costs. It is imperative that I deliver an impressive performance, regain my previous standing, and continue progressing.”
The main attraction at the York Hall, presented by Stephen Dunkley from Queensberry, is the epic clash between Bentley and Dignum.
Bentley commented that Dignum is an exceptional boxer with great technical skills.
“He possesses the skills of a left-handed boxer, excelling in delivering precise straight punches and showcasing an impressive range of shot choices. It’s crucial to note that he has encountered defeat only once, solidifying his reputation as a formidable fighter. When I discuss this upcoming match with others, I emphasize that it is not simply a return to the ring for me. It is a fight that could have happened right after my previous bout with Heaney, in case I couldn’t secure a chance at a world title. This is a truly intense and fiercely competitive confrontation.”
I understand that it’s been a while since we last saw Dignum and he hasn’t been very active. However, I am aware of his training location and I know that the gym he trains in is known for its activity. Therefore, I don’t expect him to be out of practice. I anticipate seeing a strong version of him in this fight. I am genuinely thrilled about this upcoming match, and words cannot fully express how excited I am.
Bentley, like numerous boxing enthusiasts, is relishing a phase in the sport where the most thrilling matchups are taking place. The notion of preserving undefeated records with extreme caution is diminishing as fighters increasingly embrace the possibility of defeat, understanding that it does not signify the demise of their careers. The infusion of funds from Saudi Arabia has seemingly made it more manageable to accept this risk, but it is crucial to remember that boxing is fundamentally a prizefighting endeavor.
Bentley stated, “We are currently in that phase.”
In the current phase of boxing, we are witnessing a positive trend where skilled fighters are not afraid to take challenging fights, even if it means risking their undefeated records. They understand that by selecting the right opponents, they have the opportunity to earn substantial financial rewards. This shift in mentality has resulted in an increase in exciting and competitive matchups, making this an exciting time for the sport of boxing.
The primary aspect of boxing lies in the ability to deliver a strong fight and an impressive performance. Regardless of the outcome, people will be eager to witness your future matches. Boxing is a sport of fierce competition where it is permissible to stumble, but what truly matters is how you rise back up.
He mentioned, “I enjoy competition. However, it becomes challenging for me to feel motivated when facing someone who isn’t at my level. I have the ability to ignore distractions if the task at hand is more significant than any external factors. But when I’m up against someone whom I consider inferior or not on par with me, the external distractions tend to seep in, and I lose focus. I understand the importance of maintaining professionalism, but it’s just human nature to be affected by such situations.”
Currently, Danny Dignum poses a significant threat and has the potential to deprive me of something valuable. Despite the distractions from external sources, I possess the ability to effortlessly disregard them due to my strong determination. With a formidable opponent standing before me, my utmost priority is to concentrate and give my undivided attention.
