British Boxing News: Kell Brook – Rafal Jackiewicz Set for October 8th

Welterweight Kell Brook will defend his WBA Inter-Continental title against Rafal Jackiewicz in a world title eliminator on October 8 at the Ponds Forge International Sports Centre in Sheffield, England. The unbeaten Brook claimed the belt against Lovemore N’dou in his last outing in the Steel City in June as he took his professional winning streak to 24 fights and will move a step closer to his dream world title shot with a win over the 34-year-old Pole.

Former European champion Jackiewicz, who is rated #5 with the IBF and #10 with the WBO, has lost just one of his last 24 fights and has never been stopped in his 48-fight career. Jackiewicz successfully defended his European strap twice, including a victory over Jan Zaveck, who he then challenged for the IBF title, losing a majority decision.

“I can’t wait to fight in Sheffield again,” said Brook. “The atmosphere at the Lovemore N’dou fight was incredible and I’m sure it’s going to be even better at Ponds Forge. Jackiewicz is a tough opponent who has held the European belt and challenged for a World Title so he will provide a great test for me.”

“I’m delighted to bring Kell back to Sheffield again on October 8, especially after the special atmosphere that the fans created at his last fight,” said Brook’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “Rafal provides the next step up in terms of tests for Kell and with both fighters knowing they are on the verge of a World title shot, a slip up here can destroy any dreams so you can expect an explosive fight. Kell is on the threshold of a world title shot and victory against Jackiewicz could set up an early 2012 shot with WBA champion Vyacheslav Senchenko. I’ve also had discussions with Lou DiBella about the prospect of meeting Andre Berto should he capture the IBF title against Jan Zaveck in September and with Rafal’s number five IBF rating, this is a real possibility.”