Palm Springs’ Timothy Bradley will fight next in Rancho Mirage

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Timothy Bradley, the unbeaten World Boxing Organization junior-welterweight champion from Palm Springs, will make his next title defense against former lightweight champ Nate Campbell Aug. 1 at Agua Caliente Casino Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage, Bradley’s promoter Gary Shaw told The Times on Monday.

Bradley (24-0, 11 knockouts) captured the WBO belt in April with a unanimous decision over Kendall Holt in Montreal. Bradley’s victory was his second successful World Boxing Council title defense, but he gave up that belt to pursue the marquee fight against Campbell.

The 37-year-old Campbell (33-5-1, 25 KOs) stunned Juan Diaz to win lightweight belts in March 2008, but he failed to make weight in February against Ali Funeka, surrendering his belts.

‘This is the biggest step up in Tim’s career, and he’s proven to rise to the occasion,’ Shaw said. ‘This is the name now that he has to add to his resume. If he does, he’s the premier fighter in the division, and you’d have to think the next name up would be a [Manny] Pacquiao or [Floyd] Mayweather.’

Those fighters haven’t been as quick to mention Bradley’s name as a future opponent. His name recognition is limited, but Showtime will televise the Campbell bout, and an impressive showing against the veteran in a venue with more than 4,000 seats could help thrust 25-year-old Bradley into another more elite showdown.

The hometown crowd should boost Bradley’s effort, but Shaw is cautious.

‘Historically, fighting at home can be a distraction,’ Shaw said. ‘He’s got to shuttle that out.’

-- Lance Pugmire