Ashley can reach the top but must make changes, says Charles

Trainer Don Charles insists Ashley Theophane remains on course for a world title shot but needs to make changes – which could mean the Kilburn man spends less time in the United States.

Theophane recently lost the British light-welterweight title in a shock points defeat against Darren Hamilton in Liverpool, where a third successful defence would have seen him secure the coveted Londsale belt outright.

Charles, who also trains heavyweight Dereck Chisora, believes Theophane did enough to win that contest but his cautious approach did not go down well with the judges.

And he puts that approach down to the fact that the 31-year-old has been based largely in New York.

“Ashley was already on the verge of world level and he was offered a world title eliminator. Because he’s stubborn, he wanted to win the British title outright,” Charles told West London Sport.

“I believe he won the fight by at least two rounds. But Ashley’s body language – he didn’t box like a champion – I think influenced the judges

“He needed to put his foot on the pedal at points during that fight and didn’t do that. Over there (in the US) maybe the pace is slower, so he’s inherited bad habits.

“I only put the finishing touches. He trains in America and then when he comes here he’s with me for four or five weeks.

“We’re actually having a meeting about this. For him to go to the next level, we need to do things a little bit differently.

“His attitude and his approach to fights will have to change. He trains like no-one else I know and is so fit, but he needs to change gears during the fight.”

See also:
Hatton: Theophane deserves world title shot

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