Tony Bellew to battle Ilunga Makabu for world title at Goodison Park

Tony Bellew will fight Ilunga Makabu for the vacant WBC cruiserweight title on May 29 at Goodison Park, the home of his beloved local football club Everton.

Bellew fought for world titles at light-heavyweight, losing on points to Nathan Cleverly in 2011 and being stopped in the 6th round by Adonis Stevenson in November 2013. But the British contender has won his last six fights since stepping up to cruiserweight, including gaining revenge on bitter rival Cleverly in November 2014.

"I was born to lift that belt on 29 May," said Bellew.

"I know I'm going to win, I can't and won't be defeated at Goodison Park - the greatest stadium in the world.
"I'm expecting the city to turn out in their droves as it's going to be a very special event for us all."

Congo-born Makabu has won 19 of his 20 professional bouts, all but one of which have come inside the distance.