Pat Brown believes the big nights in Manchester will keep on coming after he secured the British, Commonwealth, WBA International & IBF Intercontinental Cruiserweight Titles in scintillating style last night with a stunning sixth-round stoppage over John Hedges.
Just over 5,000 fans were inside the state-of-the-art Co-op Live to witness the Team GB Paris Olympian extend his undefeated start in the professional ranks to seven wins with as many stoppages.
Hedges, now 12-1, started brightly in the opening exchanges. But ’The Bomber' Brown, buoyed by the partisan home support, grew stronger and stringer as the contest continued before he put ’The Gentleman’ down twice with two, devastating body shots which ultimately put paid to the Takeley man's challenge.
Sale’s Brown now hopes to deliver more memorable Fight Nights in his home city in his quest to move on to “bigger things”.
"It was amazing,” said Brown.
"It was definitely the best crowd I have ever fought in front of.
"I feel like I’ve been through every scenario now. The only difference going forward will be the size and capacity going up and up.
"I wanted to show people my boxing ability. I knew he [John Hedges] would be the sharpest and best version of himself starting off. So I wanted to take my time, read his rhythm and then I started reading his combinations.
"Once I got them, and the main one of a 1-2-3 coming forward, I had his number and didn’t want to rush my work. Twelve rounds is a long time, so I wanted to show a different side of me.
"John is a good operator and he has been a true gentleman like he says he is throughout. I learned a lot in terms of the whole build-up. It really felt like it was a big, big occasion.
"I’ve only boxed twice this year due to having a slight injury. But we can keep the ball rolling and move on to big things.
"I’m happy to go down the traditional route. I’m only 26. We’ll all need to talk, because it’s a lot to take in.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is confident that Brown is ready to step in with the best in the world.
However, Hearn accepts that, with time on the 26-year-old’s side, the traditional route of winning titles is the right way for Brown to march forward in his pursuit of glory.
"Pat is only going to get better,” said Hearn, speaking at the post-fight Press Conference.
"He’s 26. And I think he is the biggest puncher in the Cruiserweight division. The European title would be a really nice progression.
"I think it’s great to see a fighter win domestic titles on their way to winning a World Title
"The European would be a great strap to win but I don’t think there are going to be too many domestic guys who will will be looking to jump in with Pat.”
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