In 1998, all eyes were on Burton’s Neville Brown as he journeyed to Bristol for a seemingly effortless defense of his coveted British middleweight championship. He proudly represented Burton-on-Trent, becoming the latest boxing sensation to capture media attention.
In his match against local favorite Glenn Catley, Brown aimed to match Len Harvey’s legendary record of six British middleweight defenses. Even in today’s era, six defenses is an astonishing feat, let alone in the bygone era when it was truly remarkable.
In 1932, Harvey achieved a record-breaking feat by defeating Len Johnson despite facing the discriminatory ‘colour bar’ defense, a fight that the Board declined to approve. It is worth noting that in 1933, Harvey lost his British middleweight title but went on to claim the British light-heavyweight and heavyweight titles later that year. Men like Len Harvey existed prior to the emergence of Marvel comics, just as Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke were reminiscent of the men who came before the Rocky movies.
I am aware that individuals like Harvey, such as Brown and Catley, have had quite an extensive experience in the boxing ring. Throughout their careers, Harvey alone could have engaged in 146 fights over a span of 22 years. As a result, both Brown and Catley bear visible scars from their time spent in the ring. When they crossed paths, it seemed that the two of them had collectively participated in a total of 58 fights, resulting in a combined count of 59 knockdowns. Recent battles had taken a toll on them, with Brown having lost two out of his last three fights and finding himself on the canvas five times. Similarly, Catley had experienced defeat in his previous match. Given these circumstances, it appeared unlikely that their upcoming fight would reach its conclusion, as it embodied the essence of a classic Nineties British title clash.
Both boxers had experienced and unconventional trainers supporting them; Brown was guided by Brendan Ingle and Catley had Chris Sanigar, both of whom had the ability to strategize and influence the outcome of a fight. Ingle had masterminded Brown’s flawless victory over Frank Grant to secure the title, while Sanigar would provide the necessary motivation for Catley on the upcoming bout. Sanigar had also played a vital role in Catley’s success on several other significant occasions, which appeared improbable prior to the Brown fight.
Catley against Brown was a legitimate contender for fight of the year. It was filled with excitement, determination, desire, and rule violations. It was an intense and rough battle, without any doubt. Typically, fights like this only occur when there are no cameras or sensitive observers present. However, Wardley and Clarke seemed to be unaware of this theory.
After completing eight rounds, Ingle prevented Brown from continuing by keeping him seated and beckoning Mickey Vann, the referee. In a concerned manner, Ingle informed Vann that the fight had come to an end. Brown’s left eye was concealed by a gruesome swelling, and he had completely lost his vision in that eye. Ingle emphasized the importance of having both eyes functional in a boxing match by stating, “You require two eyes in the boxing ring.” It was evident that Brown appeared defeated.
Vann, a sturdy referee with a polished appearance and graceful demeanor from his past as a ballroom dancer, firmly believed in allowing the boxers to showcase their skills without interference. Nonetheless, after a brief conversation with Catley during the match, he discreetly summoned him before the eighth round and cautioned him about the potential disqualification if he persisted in utilizing his head, elbows, and shoulders. Surprisingly, Brown remained silent throughout the entire bout, refraining from any complaints.
Despite facing adversity, Brown remained steadfast in his strategy, maintaining his position at the center and attempting to retaliate. However, Catley, fueled by the enthusiastic support of his hometown spectators, showcased unparalleled determination. As round eight concluded with the sound of the bell, Brown found himself battered and at a disadvantage. Undeniably, it was an exceptional bout, and although I feel a slight sense of shame admitting it, the excessive physicality only served to enhance its gripping allure.
Brown, gracefully accepting his defeat, emphasized that boxing is a sport meant for gentlemen. He asserted that he has never resorted to headbutting his opponent and expressed his frustration at losing in such a manner. However, he sincerely wished Glenn well. In contrast, Ingle revealed his intention to file an official complaint with the Board and seek a rematch. The atmosphere in the dressing room that night was far from jovial.
Ingle stated, “In this sport, there exist rules and regulations. Although Neville remained silent, I will speak up for him.”
Catley appeared genuinely confused when he was accused of being a dirty fighter in the dressing room that night. Sanigar, on the other hand, dismissed the accusations with laughter. “Maybe I got a little carried away with my head,” Catley admitted, trying to explain himself. Sanigar, who seemed to possess an unbreakable spirit, quickly forgave him for the unintentional headbutts. “These things happen, it’s a tough business,” Sanigar emphasized. Interestingly, just a week or so ago, Sanigar was working in the corner at Bar Sport in Cannock. As I mentioned before, he is truly a different kind of fighter.
Catley, in his subsequent bout, entered the ring with short notice and nearly emerged victorious against Richie Woodhall, contending for the esteemed WBC super-middleweight championship. Although he never defended his British title, Catley managed to secure the coveted WBC title in the year 2000. Sadly, Catley often goes unrecognized when it comes to acknowledging the British world champions in the super-middleweight division. Without a doubt, he deserves more recognition for his remarkable achievements.
Brown, a fighter from the Nineties, is often overlooked despite his impressive career. After suffering a defeat in his beloved Burton, he decided to retire from the sport, having participated in four more fights. His fights in Swadlincote were memorable, filled with intense drama, moments of glory, and heartbreak. These events are unlikely to be replicated. The nights were chaotic; he successfully defended his British title and then faced off against Hacine Cherifi for the European title. One particular fight stands out, taking place in a venue that left a lasting impression. Brown managed to knock down Cherifi in the first and third rounds, but ultimately lost in the sixth. The Green Bank Leisure Centre was incredibly hot that night, and the bar was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The people of Swadlincote certainly know how to enjoy a beer, just as the people of Burton know how to brew a good one. It is clear that these towns produce individuals who are exceptionally tough.
