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Vince: Cleverly v Maccarinelli was a publicity stunt

Phil D. Jay 
WBN Editor
Father says there was no chance of all-Welsh battle

According to his father, WBO light-heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly is currently in negotiations with WBA title holder Beibut Shumenov amongst others, as the Welshman looks to extend his unbeaten record in 2012.

The 25 year-old was linked to an all-Welsh world title fight against Enzo Maccarinelli as the former world cruiserweight champion moved down to 175lbs, but Vince, who also trains his son, has poured scorn on the fight ever being on the table.

“There was no chance of the fight happening,” Vince told World Boxing News. “It was just a publicity stunt to keep an interest in Welsh boxing.

“Negotiations are going ahead between Nathan and the Shumenov camp about the unification fight and also with other boxers as well. I can’t see no reason why the fight between those two can’t happen in Las Vegas this year though provided a deal can be struck soon.”

Shumenov, 28, has expressed his interest on several occasions regarding a fight with Cleverly with the only stumbling block seemingly being the venue, which seems to have now been ironed out with Nevada acceptable to both fighters.

That affectively gives Las Vegas-based Shumenov home advantage, but would give Cleverly the exposure he needs across the Atlantic as he seeks out the top names in the light-heavyweight division.

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