Cleverly Makes History As He Regains World Title In Germany

Nathan Cleverly is living the dream again after making history by beating Juergen Braehmer in Germany to win the ‘regular’ WBA light-heavyweight title.

The Welsh fighter won after six gruelling rounds when the defending champion was pulled out by his corner with a dislocated right elbow.

Cleverly is the first Welshman to lose and regain a world title at the same weight, although he only holds the WBA’s secondary belt.

The 29-year-old said: “I am very grateful to be world champion for a second time.

“I won the world title when I was 24 and was living the dream in the sport that I loved.

“I lost my belt in my sixth defence but I needed this belt back in my life.

“I have worked hard and dedicated myself to becoming a two-time champion of the world and I am so grateful.

“It’s just good to be back.

“I became champion at 24 and achieved my dream so young.

“This is the second phase of my career and it feels the right time.

“I am now two-times champion of the world and have made history for my country and am so proud.

“We have ups and downs in this sport and I have had them all.

“But it’s time to get it back and we are here for a long time.”

Cleverly is ready to give Braehmer a re-match as part of the contract.

But he added: “He has been a great champion but he is 37 years of age now.

“It’s time for a younger lion to come through and I am 29.

“When one door closes, another one opens and it’s time for a new champion.

“I broke him up in the first six rounds and knew I was going to dominate the second half.”