Inspired by the response to signing Martin Murray and the surge in interest in boxing in the UK, Golden Gloves’ Rodney Berman has taken out a promoter’s license in Britain.
It’s a big step for Africa’s champion promoter, but he’s always been motivated by new challenges. Having climbed a number of mountains in a long career, the UK presents another for the charismatic Berman.
Since signing Murray he has received a number of approaches from some of Britain’s best young fighters, clearly impressed by his reputation and ability to get things done.
Fifteen-odd years ago Berman had a UK license, but without a big ticket-seller like Murray. Now, with British boxing in such good shape, he hopes to get a slice of the action with Murray helping forge the way.
“I’ve been in the game so long, it’s important to find new challenges. But the truth is I’m also very disillusioned at the gates in South Africa, plus the general lack of support in the media and otherwise,” said Berman. “People here prefer to knock each other. But in England the focus is on backing their stars, which is very refreshing. Plus there is lots of talent coming through and the thought of putting on a show before 20 000 or 30 000 fans is very appealing. My hope is that Martin wins a world title and then we stage his first defence in Manchester.”
Berman is also excited at the prospect of working with Andrew Mikhail, Murray’s advisor. “It’s been so refreshing dealing with him, he’s a man of integrity. He has the boxer’s interest at heart; I can work with a man like that.”
