Straight out of Romford: Johnny Fisher lights up London

Back in February, a largely unknown British heavyweight took the ring in Las Vegas when Johnny Fisher faced Dmytro Bezus on the Conor Benn undercard. The local American audience, as well as tv viewers, were flummoxed at the sheer amount of support, very vocal support at that, shown for Fisher. The Chelsea Ballroom was ringing when Fisher knocked Bezus out in the first round.

For an unknown, on these shores anyway, to be able to bring over 200 cheering Brits to Sin City for an undercard bout is unheard of. Well, now he is unknown no more. Johnny Fisher is getting his chance to shine.

On Saturday night, Johnny Fisher will step into the ring at London’s Copper Box Arena as the headline act. Despite no title being on the line and no bad blood with opponent, Croatian Alen Babic, the venue will be buzzing with excitement. Fisher, in just his 12th professional bout, it would seem has already captured the hearts of thousands in the British capital, much like a heavyweight sensation should. His journey, which began with a Southern Area title victory against Harry Armstrong, now sees him headlining a card that’s sure to draw a massive crowd.

The Copper Box has hosted big fights before, like when Hamzah Sheeraz demolished Liam Williams in under three minutes. Even with names like Anthony Yarde and a buzz around potential future fights, the arena wasn’t packed to the rafters. But Fisher’s rise has been different. British fans, known for their unwavering loyalty, have embraced the “Romford Bull”, and his ability to sell out tickets has made him a hot commodity in the boxing world.

In the UK, selling tickets is a crucial part of a fighter’s success. Unlike the American scene, where walk-up sales can be influential, British fans often secure their tickets well in advance. Fisher, who some sneered at when he won the Boxing Writers’ Club’s Young Fighter of the Year award, has proven his doubters wrong. Under the guidance of trainer Mark Tibbs, he has shown potential that could rival even the likes of Dillian Whyte.

Eddie Hearn, Fisher’s promoter, marvels at his unexpected rise. “It’s almost unexplainable,” Hearn said in an interview with BoxingScene. Fisher’s ticket sales have been astonishing, selling out 700 in London, 1,500 in Sheffield, and now 3,000 for the Copper Box. “He’s a phenomenon,” Hearn added, noting that such numbers are typically reserved for fighters who have already reached world championship levels.

The heavyweight division has seen ticket-selling giants like Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington, but Fisher’s ability to draw crowds for non-title fights is unprecedented. With over 6,000 expected on Saturday, Hearn predicts even bigger things if Fisher takes on English titleholder David Adeleye or the likes of Frazer Clarke and Fabio Wardley. “We’re expecting 6,000-7,000 at the Copper Box for this one. If he faces David Adeleye for the English title, we’ll top 10,000 at The O2. A British title fight with Frazer Clarke or Fabio Wardley, and it’s a sell-out.”

When asked about Fisher’s massive appeal, despite knocking out 10 of 11 less-than-stellar opponents, Hearn added: “He’s the guy next door. Down-to-earth. Comes from a good family. He’s funny. They’ve got the ‘bosh’ tagline. His dad, John, is out there too. It’s caught fire and never extinguished.”

Fisher’s appeal isn’t just limited to the UK. His social media presence has made waves internationally, particularly in Australia, where he’s already building a fanbase. Plans are in motion to feature him on a major undercard in Brisbane or Sydney, showcasing the Romford Bull’s appeal on a global scale.

Johnny Fisher is getting his shot, taking center stage at London’s Copper Box. The Romford Bull is ready to make waves in the heavyweight scene and keep climbing the ranks, one knockout at a time.