Nottingham, UK (17 April 2003) -- Carl Greaves was still pinching himself this morning after winning the vacant WBF super-featherweight title at Nottingham Arena.
Dedicated Greaves finally got the title he has dreamed of when he beat tough little Ben Odamattey, from Ghana, on a unanimous points decision. It was hardly a classic, but Greaves thoroughly deserved the 118-112, 119-113, 117-111 verdict.
"I can't believe it. It's a dream come true," said a relieved Greaves, who has made a fairytale comeback after being banned from boxing for failing a brain scan.
"No one deserves it more because I have worked so hard over the years. He was tough, but I knew all along that he would be."
"But it's a superb belt and I can't wait to get my hands on it again."
Greaves, who is having six stitches removed from a cut over his eyelid today, says he can now go on to bigger and better things.
"This was the break I needed," he said. "I have worked so hard for it. There was a lot of pressure on me after losing two British title fights and that's why I didn't perform as well as I can.
"He could bang and I could not afford to take any chances.
"I wasn't happy with my performance but when I watched it on video I changed my mind.
"My jab was superb and I boxed his ears off."
Meanwhile, Carl Froch's next outing is likely to be in London on May 27.
He was hoping to fight on a televised bill in America this weekend, but that has fallen through.