posted on Jun, 5 2003 @ 03:50 PM
Associated Press - June 1, 2003
LONDON (AP) - Olympic super-heavyweight champion Audley Harrison and former WBO champ Herbie Hide could have their boxing licenses revoked over a
ringside brawl.
The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) general secretary Simon Block said Sunday the two would be called to explain their actions in an
inquiry.
The brawl happened after Harrison, gold medalist at the Sydney Olympics, stopped Matthew Ellis in the second round of a fight at Bethnal Green in east
London Saturday night.
Minutes later, Hide and his handlers got into a shouting match with Harrison and his entourage. Hide appeared to throw a punch at one fan, setting off
a wild melee. Chairs were thrown and tables broken as spectators scurried for cover. No serious injuries were reported.
``Any license holder who puts themselves in that situation or is found to be responsible for that sort of situation faces very grave consequences in
respect of their career,'' Block said.
``We're taking this inquiry very seriously. It's not exactly clear who was responsible for the initial disturbance.
``I can't say what actually set off the problem but clearly the presence of Hide was a major factor in that. Boxers are supposed to be able to control
themselves outside the ring and act accordingly.''
The brawl started after Harrison grabbed the ring microphone and asked fans whether he should next fight Hide or Frank Bruno, the former WBC champion
who also was at ringside.
The crowd chanted ``Bruno, Bruno,'' and booed Hide.
While Bruno came into the ring to pose for photos with Harrison, Hide stood on a chair and taunted Harrison.
Among those involved in the melee was Hide supporter Steve ``Crocodile'' Fitch,'' a former associate of Mike Tyson.
Block said the actions of Harrison's security firm and the promoter Jess Harding would also be investigated.
``A security company has very strict guidelines under which to work - and that doesn't include hitting people with chairs or rushing into
situations,'' Block said.
``The promoter is responsible for employing the security company, so we'll have to ask questions of Jess Harding.
``I'm not happy at all and a situation arose which reflects badly on our sport and brings us into disrepute.''