Just when it looked like Peter McGrail was going to miss out on his spot on the undercard of the Usyk versus Fury fight, his opportunity has been salvaged with an opponent found for him at the last minute.
A super-bantamweight, McGrail was due to fight Dennis McCann, but the fight had to be called off when the man they call 'The Menace' returned an adverse finding from a drugs test.
But when opportunity knocks, you answer and that’s exactly what Welsh boxer Rhys Edwards has done as he steps in to face McGrail on the highly anticipated undercard.
Fit and in training for a fight against Leon Woodstock, Edwards has pivoted his focus to this high-profile matchup, grabbing his chance to perform on boxing’s biggest stage with both hands. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting addition to the card.
Starting out
Rhys Edwards, who hails from Tonypandy in Wales, has been touted as one of British boxing’s brightest young prospects.
Born in 2001, Edwards discovered his passion for boxing at a young age, inspired by the sport’s rich history in Wales.
He honed his skills at the amateur level, where he accumulated an impressive record that included five Welsh titles and two British titles, before he turned professional in 2018 when still just 18 years old.
Edwards, who is one of 11 siblings, reportedly likes to sleep in the gym ahead of fights so that he can be fully focussed.
Turning professional
Edwards boasts a flawless professional record of 16-0-0, including four wins by knockout.
Known for his technical finesse, sharp footwork, and ability to outbox opponents, the super-bantamweight has steadily climbed the ranks in British boxing.
While not a knockout artist, his high work rate and tactical acumen make him a formidable opponent.
Key wins
Though still early in his career, Edwards has already faced and defeated several challenging opponents, highlighting his versatility and adaptability.
His victory over Ruslan Berchuk in 2022 was a standout performance - a fight where he displayed his ability to dominate an experienced fighter.
Each fight has added to his growing reputation as a meticulous and composed competitor.
The matchup with Peter McGrail
Facing McGrail in Riyadh represents the biggest test of Edwards’ career. McGrail, a decorated amateur and 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist, will provide a tough challenge. Both fighters are known for their technical prowess, setting the stage for an intriguing clash of styles. For Edwards, however this is a golden opportunity to elevate his profile on a global platform.
Under the guidance of his trainer, Tony Borg, Edwards has been sharpening his skills at the renowned St. Joseph’s Boxing Club in Newport.
Known for producing elite-level fighters, the gym has helped Edwards develop into a well-rounded boxer with a strong mental edge.
His preparation for the Woodstock fight ensures he can enter the ring in peak condition, ready for the late-notice opponent switch.
The road ahead
Win or lose, this fight has already elevated Rhys Edwards’ profile.
A victory against McGrail will catapult him into contention for major titles and establish him as a future star in the super-bantamweight division.
Even stepping into the ring on such a massive stage shows the determination and ambition which he will hope will come to define his career.
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