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Dan’s Cook-in’ up a storm

Simon Smedley
23/ 1/2008

DANNY Harding is determined to emerge from the shadows in some style a week on Friday when he makes his first appearance at the coveted York Hall venue in Bethnal Green, London.

Reddish-based lightweight hopeful Harding, who turned 27 earlier this month, will take on fellow unbeaten prospect Lee Cook in what promises to be a cracker of a bout on the undercard of the Tony Oakey vs Peter Haymer British light-heavyweight title clash.

Harding has not fought since last April, when he outpointed Chris Pacey to make it six straight wins in the paid ranks.

Cook, meanwhile, boasts nine wins and a draw from his 10 fights so far in the professional ranks.

Harding, who has now recovered fully from troublesome shoulder and nose injuries, said: "It’s about time I got back in the ring, the time seems to have really dragged since I won at Altrincham last April.

"At times I must admit I felt like knocking it on the head, I felt a bit like the forgotten man, but my nose is sorted now and I’m more determined than ever.

"I’ve trained hard lately, six times a week, twice a day, even over the Christmas holidays.

"I only took Christmas Day and Boxing Day off.

"I can’t wait now though. I’ve seen a dvd which features three of Lee Cook’s fights, and I’m going to smash him.

"He is definitely there to be beaten from what I’ve seen so far.

"It’d be great to beat a Cockney at the York Hall, and that’s just what I aim to do."

If Harding was to make it seven wins from seven on February 1, he will then probably look to make a significant step up in class in the Spring or the Summer.

His fight against Cook could be featured on Sky Sports’ ‘Friday Fight Night’ programme, depending on how quickly the Oakey-Haymer bout finishes.

Tickets for the York Hall show can be purchased from Danny. Ring him on 07716 090449.