Callum Simpson is to fight Italy’s Ivan Zucco for the European super-middleweight title at Oakwell Stadium in Barnsley, England on June 7.

It was at that same venue that the 28 year old not only won the British and Commonwealth titles against Zak Chelli in August 2024, he convinced his promoters Boxxer and broadcaster Sky Sports of his growing popularity in his hometown by quickly selling all 7,000 tickets, making them determined to return there in front of a bigger crowd.

Simpson defended both titles against Steed Woodall in January and then his Commonwealth title against Elvis Ahorgah of Ghana three weeks later, contributing to him edging closer to world level in a fight for the EBU title against the 29-year-old Zucco in June.

“This is the biggest fight of my career, and I’m expecting my toughest test to date,” said Simpson, a lifelong supporter of Barnsley Football Club. “Last summer, I won the British and Commonwealth titles in front of my home crowd, and now we’re coming back, bigger and better, fighting for the European title against an undefeated fighter in Ivan Zucco.

“This isn’t just another fight, it’s a massive European night, and I’m coming to put on a statement performance. I need Oakwell to be a fortress on June 7 and make sure that European title stays right here in Barnsley.

“The support from Barnsley means everything to me. This town has backed me from day one, and to be fighting at Oakwell again, in front of my people, is something special. Last time we sold it out in two days; this time we’re going even bigger. It’s going to be a night to remember and I couldn’t be prouder to represent Barnsley on the big stage.”

Zucco has stopped 18 of 21 opponents – he won the other three fights via decision – and he said: “I am really honoured to fight for such a prestigious title in such a big event. Facing a high-quality opponent like Callum Simpson is an opportunity that excites me a lot. It will be a tough battle, but I am ready to give my all for victory.

“Winning the European title would be a dream come true. This title means a lot to me, not only on a personal level, but also to my family and everyone who has always believed in me. It will be an honour to bring the title back to Italy and the culmination of a journey that I have undertaken with passion and sacrifice.”

“We are excited to bring a massive night of European boxing to Oakwell Stadium headlined by local hero Callum Simpson,” said Boxxer’s Ben Shalom. “The atmosphere last summer was something special but this is going to be even bigger with Callum Simpson in his toughest test yet facing the undefeated Italian, Ivan Zucco, for the European super-middleweight crown. 

“I know the fans from Barnsley and Yorkshire get behind their own and Callum will be counting on this incredible home support to give him the edge in this epic battle between two unbeaten fighters.”