Dream comes true for Crolla

Anthony Crolla: to fight for title

CHADDERTON ace Anthony 'Million Dollar' Crolla was close to tears at a packed press conference that revealed he would finally realise his world title fight dream.

Crolla (28) will face Colombian tough guy Darleys Perez at the Manchester Arena on July 18, when the 31-year-old's WBA lightweight title will be on the line.

It has been an emotional spell for Crolla, who hadto pull out of a previous WBA tilt before Christmas after suffering concussion and a broken ankle when chasing intruders at his neighbour’s home.

Now back in top shape under the guidance of trainer Joe Gallagher, Crolla will get his chance to win boxing's ultimate prize when he shares top-billing with Scott Quigg at the iconic city venue.

Crolla said: "I'm so lucky, in so many ways. Very few people get the chance to fight for a world title, let alone in their home city, in front of their own fans.

“People talk about the big fights in places like Las Vegas and Madison Square Garden, but give me Manchester any day. Money wouldn't buy me the feeling that I'll get when I step into the ring.

"I can't really put into words how grateful I am to a multitude of people. I'll be living the dream on July 18. Now I just need to make sure there's a happy ending.”

Crolla acknowledges he will be in for an unbelievably tough night against former amateur star Perez, who won the WBA prize in January in a unanimous points decision against Jonathan Maicelo in California.

"I'm under no illusions this will be the hardest fight of my life," added Crolla. "He's lost once in 33 fights in the pro ranks so it's going to be hard, but I'll be ready.”

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