by Mark Wilson Smith
After many years, many rounds, and many wars, ‘Super’ Steve Martin is calling time on his eventful boxing career on Friday night.
At the Fight Island event, being staged at the National Basketball Arena at Ta’ Qali, Martin will step into the ring one last time against fellow countryman Elton Azzopardi.
This final bout presents a big challenge for Martin – in recent matches he has faced opponents who are naturally bigger than him or much younger – but Azzopardi is both bigger and younger.
In an exclusive interview with the Times of Malta, Martin revealed: ‘‘After years of stepping into the ring, dedicating myself to this sport, and giving it everything I’ve got, this will be my last boxing fight. It’s a mix of emotions, but I feel nothing but pride for the journey I’ve had.
‘‘This final camp was one of the best. I trained hard under the guidance of my coach, Barry Smith, who has been instrumental in my career, even from across the UK. With him being based overseas, I also took on the responsibility of training myself, pushing my limits.
“This was personal. This was about going out the right way.’’
Despite being almost 10 years older than Azzopardi and around 6kg lighter, it hasn’t deterred him.
‘‘And I didn’t want an easy fight. I chose to face a younger, heavier opponent – because I want to give the fans one last war,” Martin said.
“I owe that to everyone who’s ever supported me. I want this to be a fight people remember, not just as the end of my career, but as a testament to what I stand for: grit, heart, and courage.
‘‘Of course, I believe in myself and my ability. I’m going in there to win. This is boxing, and I know one punch can change everything – that’s the nature of the game. I’m not being cocky. I’m being real. I’ve prepared. I’m focused. I’m bringing my A-game.
To all my fans, friends, and family – thank you. You’ve been with me through every high and low, and your support has meant more than words can express. I love you all. Let’s have it!’’
Azzopardi, who has claimed both the Malta Boxing Association Middleweight and Super Middleweight titles during his career so far, is also in a confident mood.
“I am very well prepared and have been training twice every day for 3 months, I am very dedicated as I follow a healthy lifestyle through my nutrition,” he said.ż
“I’m ready to face everything that is coming as I train at the best boxing club in Malta at Viking Boxing Club. I have been challenging Steve for the past year, he has been avoiding me since, now that he has accepted, I am ready to show everyone that I will be the king of Fight Island.”
In the chief supporting bout of the night, Lydon ‘Beqqu’ Chircop squares off against Bray Pace in a highly anticipated national title fight. Tensions have been simmering between the two, with heated exchanges on social media stoking the flames.
Expect fireworks when these rivals finally settle their score in the ring.
Another standout match-up sees Jean-Claude Mifsud take on Fouad Wakil, also with a national title on the line. The pair previously clashed four years ago in the amateur ranks, with Mifsud emerging victorious.
Now, both entering just their second professional bout, this rematch promises to deliver a fascinating contrast in styles and plenty of drama. A must-watch for fight fans.
Elsewhere on the card, respected kickboxer Jesred Piscopo continues his transition to boxing with a rematch against Zack ‘The Kid’ Calleja – a rivalry reignited after their previous encounter on Fight Island, which Piscopo won on points.
Meanwhile, promising prospects Josh Gatt and Julian Pace will both make their professional debuts in what should be a spirited contest.
