Harry Gigliotti gave his thoughts on this weekend’s showdown against Joe Fitzpatrick at BYB 32 in Leeds.
The unbeaten Gigliotti (2-0) battles Fitzpatrick for the inaugural BYB Police Gazette Super Lightweight Title.
It’s an intriguing battle between two lanky fighters who have boxed professionally. Both men come off impressive wins. Gigliotti punished veteran Rusty Crowder over five rounds to win a unanimous decision. Fitzpatrick stunned Wales fighter Jonny Jones in Cardiff at BYB 30, winning by TKO after the first round.
Gigliotti discussed how he sees this Saturday’s fight, what he enjoys about fighting bare knuckle, his win against Crowder and more!
Don’t forget to tune in this Saturday night for BYB 32. Available LIVE for just £12.99 with replays available, exclusively at BKB World TV.
Bare Knuckle Heroes: This Saturday night in Leeds, UK, you’re going to face Joe Fitzpatrick at BYB 32.
There’s some similarities with you and Joe. You’re both experienced pro boxers who are new to bare knuckle. You’re both tall guys
for the weight division also.
How do you see the fight going?
Harry Gigliotti: Although Joe and I have similar height and levels of experience, I believe I have a greater volume and technicality compared to him. He is smart in choosing his punches, but so am I. I have also gone the distance in three minute fights, while I noticed he was tired in two minute rounds. I see myself winning and outworking him, anything beyond that would just be a bonus.
Have you competed internationally before? How does it feel to come to the UK to fight Joe?
Harry: This is actually my first international fight, and it’s exciting to be flying over the pond to face him closer to his home. I expect him to have a strong fan base, but I always bring the fireworks, which makes me believe I’ll attract a crowd of my own.
The last time we saw you in the Trigon, you won a commanding five-round decision against Rusty Crowder.
What was it like going the five-round distance with such an experienced veteran?
Harry: Rusty was tough as nails. I really dug deep to try and stop him, but I firmly believe he would have fought to the death that night. He is a true warrior. It was a great experience, and a confidence builder that has prepared me for a fight like this. I know I can handle six rounds without any problems.
I4. it seemed like there was some genuine bad blood between you and Rusty, judging by the trash talking and fouls committed in the fight.
Did things get personal with Rusty?
Harry: It felt personal because he claimed he would knock me out without knowing my experience and the fighters I’ve faced in my boxing career. I took it to heart and made a statement that night. And I will always approach anyone who disrespects me and my craft in the same way.
What’s your favourite part of fighting bare knuckle?
My favorite part about fighting bare knuckle is the feeling of being a modern day gladiator. It’s raw and violent, which suits me and my style as a technician in the ring. I’ve learned to play chess in there. Especially given how small and tight the corners are.
Commentator Mike Goldberg mentioned Micky Ward as one of your heroes, since you’re both from Massachusetts. Are there any other fighters you look up to?
Yes, Micky Ward was one of the original fighters I looked up to early in my life. He trained my cousin Jeff Fraza (deceased), who was my greatest idol. Those were the days when boxers would dig deep and fight hard. It’s crazy to think how much boxing has evolved over the years. We won’t see many fighters like that anymore, which is why I love bare knuckle fighting. It brings me back to the old days of boxing.
That’s all the questions I have. Is there anything else you’d like to say or anyone you’d like to thank?
I’d like to thank my team at Lawtown Boxing for their support throughout this camp, especially my coaches Nick Peralta and Jesse Fabian. I also want to acknowledge my sparring partners: Johnny Depina, Jimmy Colon, Shyne Conce, Dee Venable, and Valentino Mercado. A big shout out to all my sponsors and my big brother, who helps manage my career. I appreciate each and every one of these people to the fullest.
