Brad Pauls open to trilogy with Nathan Heaney and hints at Frank Warren deal

Brad Pauls would be open to a trilogy with Nathan Heaney after dethroning the British middleweight champion in their rematch.

Pauls and Heaney put in another classic domestic contest for the famous Lonsdale belt after their split decision draw earlier in the year. Pauls came out on top this time, stopping Heaney in the 12^th round after dropping him in the fourth.

The pair had a tense build-up to the rematch after words were exchanged between the two boxers online about the judges’ decision. Both fighters left it all in the ring, however, and there seemed to be no animosity when Heaney handed over his belt. Although Pauls put in a much-improved performance this time out, he has stated that he would be willing to entertain a third fight with Heaney after the now-former champion gave him a second shot at the British title.

“I respect [Heaney] massively, obviously,” Pauls told The Stomping Ground. “The build-up this time was a bit different. I was a bit [surprised at the build-up] to be honest, getting called smug and arrogant is all a bit new to me.

“There’s some things that Nathan [Heaney] didn’t like that happened online and stuff. But I went and seen him in the changing rooms and I said, if he wants the trilogy, I will honor the trilogy as he’s given me the rematch this time.”

Pauls may now be the British champion but is yet to have been signed by any of the leading promoters in the UK, after spending nearly a decade on the small hall circuit. Pauls believes that after his victory on a Queensbury show, that a promotional deal with Frank Warren is inevitable. Although the British champion is targeting a trilogy with Heaney, he admitted his next move will be up to Warren.

“I think I will [sign with Queensbury Promotions], yeah, I think that’s how it goes,” said Pauls. “He’s got me now, me and Frank [Warren] are best mates. There’s options now because this [WBA Continental title] gives me a world ranking, so I guess [I’ll fight] whoever Frank wants.

“I won’t say no to anyone, but I suppose the right thing to do would be the trilogy. Nathan did it for me, I’ll do it for him, it would be a good fight again, and not one I’d turn down. Let’s see what Frank wants to do or what the options are.”