Bradley Rea (right) lost a points decision to Tyler Denny in 2022, but has since compiled a six-fight winning streak.
Few boxers understand the career-altering impact of defeat as acutely as Bradley Rea.
In November 2022, the Lancashire fighter suffered his first professional loss, a closely contested decision against Tyler Denny for the English middleweight title.
While Denny progressed to European honors and a Wembley Stadium bout against Hamzah Sheeraz, Rea’s televised appearances ceased for two and a half years.
This changes on June 28th when the 27-year-old Rea headlines in Hull, facing Shakan Pitters for the vacant European light-heavyweight title, live on DAZN.
His return to a broadcast audience after 31 months away from the spotlight was a longer wait than anticipated.
However, Rea expresses no regret over the risk that led to his temporary departure from mainstream boxing.
“I never considered avoiding the Denny fight,” he tells BBC Sport.
“Since turning pro, my goal has been to test myself against top opponents in significant fights.
“I knew it was a dangerous fight; I understood that without peak performance, the outcome could be different.
“I didn’t perform at my best that night, but everyone has off days. For the average person, it’s losing keys or stepping in a puddle. For me, it’s taking a beating. I feel judged solely on that one night.”
The Denny fight was Rea’s 15th professional contest, following 14 victories—five by knockout.
At 24, it was Rea’s first title shot; despite a promised comeback fight, he feels subsequently sidelined by promoters.
“Six months stretched into a year, then two and a half. I had to take smaller fights to maintain activity,” Rea explains.
“As a promoter, I’d want fighters like me on my cards. I delivered a ‘fight of the year’ against Jez Smith. I consistently bring the action.
“It was frustrating—I couldn’t understand why. People constantly asked about my next big fight, but it was out of my hands.”
Rea posits his experience highlights why fighters shy away from riskier opponents.
“More fighters with my mentality would improve the sport,” he asserts.
“Boxing’s a business; ultimately, it’s about profit. Witnessing this firsthand explains why some avoid risks.”
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Rea’s six-fight winning streak includes five knockouts.
Rea’s setbacks extended into 2025. A February undercard bout for Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol 2 was canceled fight week.
In April, he stepped in on short notice to face Daniel Blenda Dos Santos, only for the European light-heavyweight champion to withdraw the day of the fight.
Dos Santos was stripped of his title, and Rea was subsequently matched with Pitters for the vacant belt.
Despite the turmoil, Rea claims to be “where I’m meant to be”.
“Despite career challenges, I’m happier than ever personally,” he adds.
“It’s been a long, arduous journey, but I feel I’m on the right path.”
Rea believes a victory and the prestigious European title would be his “bargaining chip” for a return to major fights.
“It’s about returning to the big stage and proving myself to those who have dismissed me,” Rea stated.
“I want to prove people wrong and showcase my abilities. Once we secure this title, others will seek to fight me.”
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