Major Keepmoat announcement.......

by Askern Rovers Fri 22 Mar - 1:45:08

Doncaster stands on the verge of hosting the biggest sporting event in its history.

The Doncaster Free Press understands the Keepmoat will be revealed as the venue for Jamie McDonnell’s bid to become Doncaster’s first world boxing champion.

An open press conference has been called for noon on Friday at the stadium.

There McDonnell’s manager Dennis Hobson will announce the date and venue for his man’s IBF title bout with Mexican KO king Julio Ceja.

It is believed as well as confirming the Keepmoat as the host venue, either May 11 or May 18 will be revealed as the date.

It is understood a deal has been agreed in principal but the final details will be thrashed out between now and Friday’s scheduled announcement.

Both Hobson and a Keepmoat spokesperson refused to confirm reports when contacted by the Free Press.

However, Doncaster Rovers have confirmed an announcement will be made on Friday regarding a ‘major stadium event.’

McDonnell instructed Hobson to deliver the biggest night of his life in his dream venue after sealing his shot in a final eliminator last October.

It initially appeared the fight would take place in March or April, ruling the Keepmoat out as a venue due to the football season and weather.

But a protracted negotiation process has delayed the bout, bringing the stadium back into play as a potential host.

Sheffield’s Motorpoint Arena has also been under consideration.

Reports last week that McDonnell would be forced to travel to Mexico to face 20-year-old Ceja are thought to be wide of the mark.

Ceja’s camp did steal the march in the purse bidding process but it is understood Hobson – keen to avoid a daunting trip across the Atlantic – refused to admit defeat and has thrashed out a deal to bring the fight to the UK.

Should the Keepmoat be selected as the host venue, it will be the first time the stadium has been used for such a sporting event.