On September 27 at York Hall, the Edwards family is in for an intriguing night.
For the first time ever, brothers Charlie and Sunny will find themselves in different corners. Charlie will be entering the ring to challenge Thomas Essomba, (13-8-1, 4 KOs), for the European bantamweight title. On the other hand, Sunny won’t be stepping into the ring as a fighter but will be fulfilling his role as Essomba’s manager, standing by his side throughout the match.
Essomba, originally from Cameroon but currently residing in Britain, is set to defend his title for the second time. He captured the championship in Italy back in May 2023 by defeating the reigning champion Alessio Lorusso through a points victory. Earlier this year, in February, Essomba managed to retain his belt by securing a split decision win against French contender Elie Konki.
After securing the world title in the flyweight division in 2018, Charlie Edwards (19-1, 7 KOs) is determined to regain his former glory under the guidance of Stephen Smith, a former super-featherweight world title challenger. With his sights set on climbing up the rankings once again, Edwards is eager to prove himself in the boxing world.
Essomba emphasized that amidst the attention on the Edwards brothers, it is crucial to acknowledge the true champion in this fight.
“This belt belongs to me, and I have chosen to defend it voluntarily. I have granted Charlie this opportunity, even though he has not earned it. Don’t be deceived into thinking otherwise.”
After enduring countless challenges and overcoming numerous obstacles in both my personal life and career, I have finally reached this pivotal moment. Absolutely nothing will deter me from leaving York Hall without that coveted belt.
Essomba feels the need to reiterate that he holds the title as the champion.
Edwards disclosed that Essomba provoked him through a private message on social media following his bout against Julio Cesar Martinez in 2019. This incident occurred after the initial outcome, which initially declared Martinez as the winner, was later changed to a no contest.
Edwards stated that he has been closely monitoring Essomba for a considerable period of time and has not overlooked the disrespectful behavior exhibited by Essomba following his world title bout against Martinez.
Despite my brother’s belief that he understands me more than anyone else, nothing Sunny can say or do will prevent me from fiercely tearing away the European title from Essomba through a devastating knockout.
“This is the most significant battle in both my career and Essomba’s. I encourage him to relish every moment with Sunny by his side in the lead-up because once the fight starts, it will solely be him and me. And I fully intend to make him regret every word he has uttered against me.”
Sunny Edwards, Essomba’s manager, expresses his pride for both his fighter and his brother. However, he clarifies that he will be fully supporting his fighter during the event.
Essomba’s incredible journey to reach this point undoubtedly makes him deserving of every opportunity he can receive, and I will wholeheartedly support him, just as I do with all the fighters under my management.
The outcome of the fight rests solely in the ring, and the determination of the winner lies exclusively with Thomas and Charlie.
On September 27, I’ll be Sunny Essomba, so don’t be mistaken, but I must say I’m proud of both of them and eagerly anticipating an incredible night of championship boxing.
