IT’S hard to believe winning a world title would ever be a hollow feeling, but for Charlie Bubb - the new Martial Arts Sports Association 75kg world Muay Thai champion - his victory was just that.
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Bubb’s opponent, Daniel Gooch, withdrew from the bout little more than 24 hours prior to the event and Bubb was awarded the title by default.
Despite now being regarded as the best 75kg fighter on the planet, Bubb’s trainer Anthony Wharton said the 17-year-old didn’t want the tag until he rightfully earned it.
“Charlie is very reluctant to accept the title,” Wharton explained.
“It’s a very bittersweet result. While he is the new champion, he’s not happy with it. He wants to earn his stripes.”
While being loathe to speculate, Wharton did offer a couple of insights into why Gooch might have pulled out.
“Honestly, I think he might have been a bit overwhelmed by the whole thing, it is daunting,” Wharton explained.
“On paper, Daniel would have gone into the fight as a heavy favourite.”
Despite the “very hollow” nature of the win, Wharton said the title could still act as the springboard Bubb had been waiting for to crack the international scene.
“I hope it is, but we badly wanted that name. We wanted to say Charlie had beaten Gooch,” Wharton said.
“It does mean, hopefully, an international fighter will challenge Charlie for the crown. I literally cannot find anyone who will fight him anymore at that weight.
“Charlie is at the elite level now.”
Fellow High Impact fighter Triston Roach was the second main event on Saturday night at Dubbo Sportsworld, but lost “an incredible fight” via points decision.
