LEICESTER novice Sheldon Purdy came from nowhere to emerge as a contender for world strawweight honours by jabbing his way to a points victory over Wicha Phulaikhao (aka Pigmy Kokietgym) on Carl Greaves’ show at the King Power Stadium. Purdy forked out thousands to bring the two-time world title challenger over from Thailand and in only his sixth fight, the Midlander, several inches taller but more than six pounds lighter, jumped several levels to win 78-74 on the card of referee-for-the-night Kevin Parker.
Out for 18 months, Purdy picked up nose damage and was nicked on his left eyebrow in the third, but mostly he wasn’t there for Phulaikhao to hit. The Thai chased and Purdy picked him off.