November 1992. BBC Website
Well, fresh from his excellent win against Joe Argilla, Johnny has been doing some roadwork to try and build up his stamina. At this point he'd struggle with a lot of fighters, especially over longer distances, and a title shot against 'Odd Job' Kimber would severely tax his ability to just stand up over a possible 12 rounds! Unfortunately "God" seemingly didn't bless Johnny with much endurance at all. After a month of intensive training, he seems to be strengthening his ability to bounce back, but not simply to keep going.
If rumours are to be believed, Uncle Bangla has been negotiating with at least 10 potential opponents. Looking through the possible opponents, one that we can rule out straight away is Carl Drefus. Jowls stopped him in the last round last May, and there'd be little to gain from such a match up.
Of the others, here's what John Rawling had to say on the BBC website:
Theo Cabouchi - the Italian could represent Jowls's first foray away from these shores. He doesn't have much power and some say even has a glass chin. He's a way for Jowls to pad out his record, but no more at this stage of his career.
Joey Cadoza - there's unfinished business here for Jowls. Last July Jowls suffered a cut on the bridge of his nose and was eventually outpointed by the Spaniard. In December they brought him back to Newcastle for a re-match and jowls was badly cut in the opening exchanges and the ref stopped the fight as a no contest.
Bob Young - this Scotsman is fairly quick on his feet but he can take a punch and would likely take Jowls the distance. He's one of my favourites for Jowls to get more experience and pad out his record.
Collie Thomas - they just fought a hard bout in March. With a win already for Jowls, I can't really see Bangla accepting an unnecessary rematch this early.
Lloyd Castell - the Jamaican is another who could take Jowls the whole way, although he's susceptible to cuts. A very useful stepping stone though.
Leroy Gardner - a crowd puller with a big punch. The money might be good but can Jowls afford to take a chance?
Joe Argilla - I really dunno where these rumours are coming from. After stopping the Argentinian last time out, why would he take this on?
Graham MacLaren - the defeated challenger for the British crown a month or so ago. That was on the same bill as the Jowls/Argilla fight so Jowls's team will have seen enough to decide whether to try for this one or not. Would be a hard fight and might gain Jowls a shot at the British title.
Tiny La Cota - Not sure Jowls is ready for Tiny, but this would be the best win of his career if it came off. Likely to be a big payer too.
Joe 'Odd Job' Kimber - would Bangla have the audacity to try for a shot at the title already? There's no doubt Johnny has been touting the prospect in interviews, but this could be just hot air. Kimber came back from being spread-eagled on the canvas against MacLaren to knock out his challenger the first time he really went looking for a result. Might be a step too far this year for Jowls.
Well, those are the rumoured opponents. We'll just have to see what will be in store for the Byker Brawler.
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