Thomas Essomba-Jay Harris: Commonwealth title rivals come face-to-face

Essomba makes the maiden defence of his Commonwealth flyweight title at the York Hall in Bethnal Green tomorrow night when he takes on the unbeaten Welshman.

The pair met for the first time at the weigh-in at the Peacock Gym, the Sunderland boxer weighing 7st 13lbs 2oz and his challenger four ounces heavier.

Essomba and Harris took part in the traditional square-up photo, but there was no ill-felling between the rivals who shook hands.

They will meet for real at the iconic York Hall, live on BoxNation.

Essomba's manager, Phil Jeffries, said: "Thomas looks in fantastic shape for the fight.

"He's been waiting a long time for his first defence and I think it will be worth the wait."

The bookmakers have the undefeated Swansea puncher as favourite for the match scheduled for 12 rounds.

Essomba is rated 5-4 by Paddy Power with Jay Harris 8-13, a draw 18-1 which would ensure the Wearsider would retain the belt.

"I'm not sure about those odds," said Jeffries. "Thomas is the champion who has been the distance and the favourite is a lad who has never been further than four?

"I don't get it, but I don't set the odds.

"I'm confident in my man, he's world-class."

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