http://www.***********.com/?m=show&id=30549 Matthew Macklin is 'disappointed' by news of the cancellation of his British and EBU middleweight title showdown with Darren Barker. Gallagher, though, confirmed that Macklin, 28, is determined to keep his place on Frank Warren's September 18th 'Magnificent Seven' bill. Gallagher joined Macklin for his recent trip to Freddie Roach's Wildcard gym in LA in order to help oversee the Brummie's final pre-fight preparations. Gallagher is adamant that Barker's hip-injury withdrawal, while a huge setback, will not affect Macklin's ability to perform come the 18th. We're gutted and so are all the people around him admitted Gallagher. I spoke to [Frank Warren's matchmaker] Dean Powell before and he confirmed it. Macklin has just come back from LA and his preparation over there was fantastic. Matt's been around long enough not to let this type of thing trouble him and he'll be fully focussed on the 18th. Gallagher was also quick to wish Barker, 28, a speedy recovery and hopes that the Barnet-based boxer, who is 22-0 (24), recovers fully from his hip injury. Barker has this hip injury and no doubt has been told by his doctor he needs to withdraw, after all the talk ahead of this fight it is disappointing but we wish Darren a speedy recovery and you can pick up injuries in this game, bemoaned Gallagher, who believes that Macklin, 26-2 (18 early), will be in fine mental fettle come fight night. He added: Matt is in great condition, he is a great professional, a world class fighter, and will be able to adapt. This lad was a world class amateur who fought all over the world at a few days notice and he'll be able to adopt the style necessary to beat whoever they bring in he'll be fine on fight night.
The guy who couldn't even commit to being ringside to what would be the biggest fight of Macklins career? If anything, it should be the other way around.
